FIFA WC 2026: Amad’s late winner steers Ivory coast to thrilling 1-0 win over Ecuador

In a dramatic kickoff to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, the Ivory Coast national football team secured a thrilling 1-0 victory over Ecuador, courtesy of a 90th-minute winner from Manchester United winger Amad Diallo. The decisive goal, scored at Philadelphia Stadium on June 14 (ET), shattered Ecuador's impressive 19-match unbeaten streak and marked Ivory Coast's first World Cup win in 12 years. Diallo, coming off the bench in the 56th minute, instantly injected pace and urgency, ultimately etching his name into tournament history as the first substitute since Francesco Totti in 2006 to net a winning goal in a World Cup fixture. The stakes in Group E are now sharply defined, with Ivory Coast joining Germany at the top of the table after Germany's commanding 7-1 win over Curaçao earlier in the day. For the Ivorian Elephants, led by coach Emerse Fae, this victory offers a crucial momentum boost as they aim to finally advance past the group stage, a feat they've never achieved despite past appearances. Ecuador, under Sebastián Beccacece, now faces an uphill battle, needing to overcome their defensive solidity issues in the final third and regroup quickly for their next crucial encounter. Looking ahead, Ivory Coast will face a formidable test against Germany on June 20, a match that could significantly shape their qualification hopes. Ecuador, meanwhile, is set to play Curaçao on the same day in what becomes a must-win game to keep their World Cup dreams alive, before their clash with Germany on June 25. Amad Diallo's burgeoning form, including leading the tournament in successful dribbles, positions him as a key player to watch, while the tactical prowess of both coaches will be under intense scrutiny as Group E unfolds.