Ivory Coast opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in dramatic fashion as Manchester United winger Amad Diallo struck a 90th-minute winner to secure a 1–0 victory over Ecuador in a tense Group E clash at Philadelphia Stadium on Monday (IST).
The match appeared destined for a goalless draw before Amad produced a composed finish into the bottom corner deep into stoppage time, giving Ivory Coast a crucial winning start to their tournament and lifting them to second place in the group behind Germany.
The first half was full of end-to-end action, with Ecuador coming agonisingly close twice as John Yeboah’s long-range effort crashed against the crossbar before Alan Minda also struck the woodwork with a curling attempt that left the goalkeeper beaten.
Ivory Coast grew into the contest through Yan Diomande’s lively presence on the right flank, while Bazoumana Touré forced a sharp save from Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez as both sides traded chances in an entertaining opening half.
Notably, at 19 years and 212 days, Yan Diomande became the first teenager to make an appearance in a FIFA World Cup match for Ivory Coast.
Chances continued to flow early in the second half, with Enner Valencia smashing a shot off the post from a tight angle. It was then Ecuador’s turn to hit the bar. Elye Wahi made a solid connection with his first-time strike but couldn’t keep it down, and it cannoned off the bar.
The Ivory Coast began to seize control of the match, enjoying most of the possession as Ecuador retreated. They got their reward for their enterprising play late in the piece when Amad slotted in to send them top of Group E.
(With agency inputs)