Amad Diallo late winner earns Ivory Coast three points

Ivory Coast edged Ecuador 1-0 in Philadelphia thanks to a dramatic 90th‑minute strike from Amad Diallo, securing three crucial points in Group E of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Elephants now sit top of the group, while Ecuador face an uphill battle after a narrow defeat.

The opening 45 minutes were packed with intensity and near misses. Ecuador’s John Yeboah rattled the crossbar with a thunderous effort from distance, while Alan Minda also struck the woodwork after being played through by Pedro Vite.

Ivory Coast responded with Bazoumana Toure forcing a fingertip save from Hernán Galíndez, but neither side could break the deadlock before halftime. The half was also marked by discipline issues, with Ivory Coast picking up three yellow cards — Seko Fofana, Franck Kessié, and Guela Doué all cautioned.

The second half continued in the same vein, with both teams trading chances. Ecuador captain Enner Valencia smashed a shot against the post, while Ivory Coast’s Elye Wahi saw his strike cannon off the bar. Possession was nearly even — Ecuador held 52% to Ivory Coast’s 48% — but the West Africans began to assert control as the game wore on, pushing Ecuador deeper into their own half.

With the match seemingly destined for a goalless draw, substitute Amad Diallo became the hero. In the 90th minute, he latched onto a pass from Wilfried Singo and swept a low left-footed finish into the bottom corner. The Manchester United winger’s strike sparked wild celebrations among the Ivorian fans and players, sealing a famous victory.

Yan Diomande, making history as the first teenager to represent Ivory Coast at a World Cup, was a constant threat down the right flank. Goalkeeper Yahia Fofana also impressed, keeping Ecuador at bay despite their six corners and late pressure. For Ecuador, Hernán Galíndez made three crucial saves, but his side’s inability to convert chances proved costly.

This result places Ivory Coast second in Group E, behind heavyweights Germany, who had earlier thrashed Curaçao 7-1. Ecuador, meanwhile, must regroup quickly if they are to progress, with tough fixtures ahead.

For Ivory Coast, this victory is historic — their first World Cup win against a higher-ranked opponent — and it sets the tone for a campaign full of promise.