Ivory Coast marked their return to the FIFA World Cup with a dramatic victory as Amad Diallo’s last-minute goal secured a 1-0 win over Ecuador in Philadelphia.
For much of the contest, both sides appeared destined to share the points after an evenly fought encounter packed with near misses and resilient defending. But with just minutes remaining, substitute Diallo produced the decisive moment to break Ecuadorian hearts and hand the Elephants a crucial opening win in Group E.
The Manchester United winger, introduced shortly after the break, found space inside the penalty area in the 90th minute before firing a low left-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez. Defender Wilfried Singo provided the assist after driving forward down the right flank and delivering a precise pass into Diallo’s path.
The result gives Ivory Coast an early advantage in a group that also includes Germany and Curaçao.
Despite the late setback, Ecuador had created several dangerous opportunities and looked capable of taking control at various stages of the match. Playing in front of a crowd largely dominated by supporters wearing the yellow colours of La Tri, the South Americans struck the woodwork twice in the opening half.
John Yeboah came closest first before Nilson Angulo also rattled the crossbar as Ecuador searched for an opening goal.
Ivory Coast responded after the interval. Elye Wahi nearly put the African side ahead in the 52nd minute when his effort crashed against the crossbar following impressive build-up play from Yan Diomande.
Diomande remained a constant threat throughout the second half, repeatedly stretching Ecuador’s defence with his pace and direct attacking runs. His influence helped shift momentum towards the Elephants as the match entered its final stages.
Ecuador’s best opportunity after the break arrived in the 68th minute when Gonzalo Plata unleashed a powerful long-range effort, but goalkeeper Yahia Fofana reacted sharply to push the shot away.
Having survived Ecuador’s pressure, Ivory Coast remained patient and were ultimately rewarded when Diallo delivered the decisive finish moments before full time.
The victory represents a significant step for the two-time African champions, who are making their first World Cup appearance since 2014 and are seeking to reach the knockout phase for the first time in their history.
Attention now turns to a major test against four-time world champions Germany, who opened their campaign with a commanding 7-1 win over Curaçao.
Ecuador will attempt to recover when they face Curaçao in their second group match on June 20.
