Egypt take the stage: Salah and Marmoush in the XI

The starting XIs have been confirmed for New Zealand and Egypt in their second 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G match. The managers' choices are now clear ahead of this crucial game, which both teams aim to win to keep their qualifying hopes alive.

For Egypt, manager Hossam Hassan kept faith in his star line-up. Shobeir is in goal, with Ashour, Attia, Fathy, Fatouh, Hany, Ibrahim and Lasheen in defence and midfield. Up front, the team's biggest weapons stand out: alongside captain Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush and Ziko start in the XI. The Pharaohs plan to test the opposition goal with the experienced, dangerous attacking duo of Salah and Marmoush in particular.

For New Zealand, manager Darren Bazeley largely stuck with the side from their opener. Crocombe is in goal, with Bell, Boxall and Cacace in defence. Just, McCowatt, Payne, Singh and Stamenic operate in midfield, with captain Chris Wood starting up front alongside Surman. The All Whites' biggest asset will be the finishing of experienced striker Wood. New Zealand's Marko Garbett is out with a muscle injury.

Both teams are targeting three points here. For Egypt, a win would be a big advantage on the road to the last 32, while New Zealand will look to strengthen their group standing with a surprise result. The battle between Egypt's attack, led by Salah and Marmoush, and New Zealand's forward line, led by Wood, could decide the game.

Starting XIs
New Zealand: Crocombe; Bell, Boxall, Cacace, Just, McCowatt, Payne, Singh, Stamenic, Surman, Wood
Egypt: Shobeir; Ashour, Attia, Fathy, Fatouh, Hany, Ibrahim, Lasheen, Marmoush, Salah, Ziko

Image: The Sun