Ivory Coast Secures Dramatic Late Win Over Ecuador at World Cup 2026

Ivory Coast made a triumphant debut at the 2026 World Cup, snatching a late 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a hard-fought match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. The decisive moment came in the dying minutes of the game, with substitute Amad Diallo netting the winning goal.

“

In this kind of match, you have to stay focused (until the end). We had one opportunity, one is enough to put it in.

Diallo, the young Manchester United attacker, entered the field in the second half and proved to be the game-changer. In the 90th minute, he received a pass from winger Wilfried Singo and struck a slightly mishit left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area that found the back of the net, sending the Ivorian supporters into a frenzy.

"In this kind of match, you have to stay focused until the end. We had one opportunity, and one is enough to put it in," said Ely Wahi, reflecting on the team's ability to capitalize on their chance. Yan Diomandé, who was named man of the match, added, "It's always good to start with a victory, for confidence."

“

It's always good to start with a victory, for confidence.

The match was a tense affair, with both teams hitting the woodwork three times – Ecuador twice and Ivory Coast once. The stadium, largely supporting the South American team, witnessed a resilient performance from the Ivorian side, who overcame a shaky first half. Coach Emerse Faé acknowledged the team's initial nervousness, stating, "In the first half, we were a bit tense; it's the first World Cup for our 26 players, there were hesitations, the fear of taking risks." However, he noted a significant improvement in the second half, where the team "came back with more intentions, more focused, and managed to rebalance things."

“

In the first half, we were a bit tense; it's the first World Cup for our 26 players, there were hesitations, the fear of taking risks.

With this crucial win, Ivory Coast joins Germany at the top of Group E. Germany, considered a traditional title contender, had a dominant performance earlier, defeating Curaçao 7-1. Ivory Coast is set to face Germany next on June 20 in Toronto, while Ecuador will play Curaçao in Kansas City.

“

In the second half, we came back with more intentions, more focused, and we managed to rebalance things.