Ivory Coast–Ecuador, Diallo seals the result late in a spectacular match

The Diallo goal in the 90th minute gave Ivory Coast an important victory against Ecuador in a match full of chances and three shots against the post for both teams.

One of the most entertaining matches played so far in the 2026 World Cup was heading toward a goalless draw. However, Amad Diallo had other plans, and in the 90th minute of the match played in Philadelphia, he secured a 1–0 victory for Ivory Coast over Ecuador.

The match delivered a high tempo, sporting excitement, and numerous chances throughout the 90 minutes. In the first half, Ecuador was the more dangerous team for around 35 minutes and created the best scoring opportunities. However, the Africans also had their moments, while the South American side hit the post twice and could have taken the lead.

In the second half, Ivory Coast took control of the game. The African side applied more pressure, also hit the post, and continued searching for a goal until the end. The reward came in the 90th minute, when after a quick counterattack, Diallo finished with class and sent the ball into the net.

This result in Group E gives the Africans an important advantage in the race for qualification. With Germany considered the group favorite, the “Elephants” are looking optimistically at the chance to secure at least second place after this opening win.

Key moments of the match

2’ Caicedo tried with a powerful shot, but the ball went wide

11’ Valencia found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper after a defensive mistake, but failed to hit the target

23’ Yeboah hit the crossbar with a powerful strike

30’ Minda hit the post after a well-worked Ecuadorian attack

52’ Wahi deflected the ball after a cross from Diomandé, but hit the post

68’ Plata threatened seriously, but goalkeeper Fofana made a good save

83’ Konan missed a clear chance from close range for Ivory Coast

90’ Goal 1–0: Singo broke down the right flank at speed and crossed into the box, where Diallo finished first-time with his left foot to score the winning goal

Lineups

Ivory Coast (Emerse Faé): G. Fofana (77’ Sangaré), Konan, Singo, Doué (89’ Kossounou), Agbadou, S. Fofana, Kessié, Diomandé, Wahi (56’ Bony), Pépé (77’ Oulai), Touré (56’ Diallo).

Ecuador (Sebastián Beccacece): Galíndez, Incapié, Ordóñez, Pacho, Minda (56’ Angulo), Vite, Franco (62’ Poroso), Caicedo, Yeboah (62’ Preciado), Valencia (77’ Rodríguez), Plata.

“KORÇA BOOM”