Ivory Coast kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion after substitute Amad Diallo scored a late winner to seal a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their Group E opener.
The Manchester United winger emerged as the hero after coming off the bench in the second half to deliver the decisive moment in the 90th minute.
Diallo, who was surprisingly left out of Emerse Fae’s starting XI, made an immediate impact after replacing Bazoumana Toure shortly after the restart. His breakthrough came following a powerful run down the right flank by Wilfried Singo before the winger calmly slotted past Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez to spark wild celebrations among the Ivorian squad.
Ecuador had looked the more dangerous side in the opening stages and came close to taking the lead on several occasions. John Yeboah and Alan Minda both struck the crossbar within the opening 30 minutes as the South Americans controlled possession and created the clearer chances.
However, despite their bright start and an impressive 19-match unbeaten run heading into the tournament, Ecuador gradually lost momentum as Ivory Coast settled into the contest.
The African champions grew stronger after the break, with Yan Diomande providing energy in attack, although his final delivery often lacked precision. Elye Wahi also came close to breaking the deadlock when his effort rattled the crossbar.
The introduction of Diallo and Ange-Yoan Bonny eventually shifted the momentum in Ivory Coast’s favour, and their persistence paid off at the death.
The result handed Ivory Coast a perfect start to life in Group E and marked their first World Cup victory in 12 years, while Ecuador were left to reflect on missed opportunities in a painful opening defeat.