Côte d’Ivoire kicked off its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style, as substitute Amad Diallo struck a late winner to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Philadelphia.
The South Americans started brightly and repeatedly threatened the Ivorian goal through the dangerous quartet of Moisés Caicedo, Enner Valencia, John Yeboah and Alan Minda. Yeboah unleashed a fierce long-range strike that crashed against the crossbar.
Moments later Ecuador came even closer. Pedro Vite threaded a superb pass through the Ivorian defence and Minda raced clear, only to see his curling effort strike the woodwork for a second time.
Goalkeeper Fofana remained calm and assured behind a disciplined back line, while 19-year-old Yan Diomande continued to provide a spark going forward. Côte d’Ivoire gradually began to grow into the contest. However, neither side could find the breakthrough.
The second half continued in similar fashion, with chances arriving at both ends. Ecuador again came within inches of scoring when veteran striker Enner Valencia fired a powerful effort against the post from a narrow angle.
Elye Wahi connected brilliantly with a first-time effort that beat the goalkeeper but rattled the crossbar, ensuring the remarkable battle with the woodwork continued.
As the match entered its final stages, Côte d’Ivoire began to assert greater control. In the 90th minute, substitute Amad timed his run perfectly before guiding a precise left-footed finish into the bottom corner beyond the reach of Galíndez.
Just when the Group E encounter appeared destined to finish goalless, the Manchester United winger produced a moment of quality in the closing moments to hand the Elephants a priceless three points. The win moved them level on points with Germany at the top of the group.
The result capped a resilient display from Emerse Faé’s side, who were forced to withstand long periods of Ecuadorian pressure before delivering the decisive blow when it mattered most.
After surviving Ecuador’s early storm and finding a late breakthrough through Amad, the former African champions have announced their arrival at the World Cup in the most dramatic fashion possible.
The Elephants now turn their attention to a huge Group E showdown against Germany, buoyed by the confidence of an opening victory and the knowledge that they possess players capable of producing decisive moments on football’s biggest stage.
