Amad’s last-minute goal brings Côte d’Ivoire dramatic win
At Philadelphia Stadium, Côte d’Ivoire claimed a thrilling 1–0 victory against Ecuador in their Group E opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decisive moment came in the 90th minute when Amad Diallo, fresh off the bench, calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, Qazinform News Agency cites FIFA official website.
Amad Diallo scored a 90th-minute winner as Côte d'Ivoire edged Ecuador in a breathless contest in which the woodwork was struck four times.
Ecuador’s John Yeboah and Alan Minda both struck the bar in the first half.
Côte d’Ivoire Yan Diomande troubled Ecuador, while Bazoumana Toure forced a fingertip save from Hernan Galindez.
Ecuador captain smashed a shot off the post in the second half.
The Manchester United winger Amad delivered the decisive strike in stoppage time, sending Les Éléphants top of Group E.
Côte d’Ivoire now lead Group E with three points.
The contest featured four shots against the woodwork, showcasing its intensity.
Amad Diallo’s impact off the bench underscores Côte d’Ivoire’s attacking depth.
Côte d’Ivoire will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming group matches, while Ecuador must regroup after a narrow defeat.
To note, in Arlington, Texas, Japan’s Daichi Kamada scored an 88th-minute equalizer to secure a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening Group F clash at the 2026 World Cup.
