Diallo’s Late 90th Minute Goal Hands Ivory Coast a 1-0 Win Over Ecuador in World Cup Opener

Amad Diallo delivered a dramatic 90th minute winner as Ivory Coast edged Ecuador 1-0 in a tense World Cup encounter at the Lincoln Financial Field, marking a memorable return to the tournament after a long gap.

The Manchester United winger , introduced in the 56th minute, produced a composed left footed finish from inside the penalty area after being set up by a powerful run and assist from Wilfried Singo . The strike finally broke a match that had seen both sides repeatedly denied by the woodwork.

Earlier, the game had swung back and forth with Ecuador and Ivory Coast each striking the crossbar three times. Ivory Coast’s Elye Wahi came close in the 52nd minute, while Ecuador’s John Yeboah and Nilson Angulo also rattled the frame in a lively first half.

Ecuador, backed by a heavily partisan crowd, looked more threatening in phases after the break. Gonzalo Plata forced a strong save from goalkeeper Yahia Fofana in the 68th minute, but they could not find a breakthrough as their 19 match unbeaten run came to an end.

Ivory Coast showed defensive discipline throughout their qualifying campaign and carried that resilience into this contest, going unbeaten for long spells. Captain Franck Kessié set the tone early with aggressive midfield play in a physical opening.

The result puts Ivory Coast in a strong position in the group as they prepare to face Germany next, while Ecuador will look to recover against Curacao .