Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner as Ivory Coast defeated Ecuador 1-0 in their World Cup Group E opener on Sunday.
The match at the Philadelphia Stadium looked set to end goalless after a tightly contested encounter, with Ecuador’s disciplined defence frustrating the African champions for long spells.
However, Diallo—introduced just before the hour mark—delivered the decisive moment deep into the closing stages, finishing first time from a low cross from Wilfried Singo to seal all three points for Ivory Coast.
Ecuador had earlier come closest to breaking the deadlock, striking the woodwork twice in the first half through John Yeboah and Alan Minda, while Ivory Coast also rattled the bar after the break through Elye Wahi.
Despite Ecuador dominating large spells and enjoying strong backing from a packed crowd of over 68,000, they were unable to convert their chances against a resilient Ivorian defence.
The result marks Ivory Coast’s first World Cup victory in 12 years, since their 2014 win over Japan, and boosts their hopes of reaching the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
The Elephants, who are African champions, will next face Germany in Toronto, while Ecuador take on debutants Curacao in their second Group E fixture.
