Amad Diallo’s Late Strike Gives Ivory Coast Winning Start at FIFA World Cup 2026

Ivory Coast began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a thrilling Group E clash at Philadelphia Stadium.

The match appeared destined for a goalless draw before substitute Amad Diallo scored a stunning 90th-minute winner, curling a precise finish into the bottom corner. Ecuador came close several times in the first half, with efforts from John Yeboah and Alan Minda striking the crossbar. Ivory Coast responded through lively teenager Yan Diomande and Bazoumana Toure, who tested goalkeeper Hernan Galindez.

At 19 years and 212 days, Diomande became the first teenager to represent Ivory Coast at a FIFA World Cup. The victory lifts the Elephants to second place in Group E.