By Blessing Nweke
Amad Diallo came off the bench to score a dramatic 90th-minute winner as Ivory Coast marked its return to the FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Sunday.
Playing in its first World Cup in 12 years and fourth overall appearance, Ivory Coast appeared destined for a draw before Diallo produced a moment of brilliance late in the match. The Manchester United winger, introduced in the 56th minute, collected a pass from Wilfried Singo following a powerful run down the right flank and fired a left-footed shot from inside the penalty area past diving Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez.
The decisive goal capped an entertaining contest in front of a crowd of 68,274 at Lincoln Financial Field, where Ecuador enjoyed strong support from fans dressed in the team’s trademark yellow jerseys.
Both sides struck the woodwork before the breakthrough. Ecuador’s John Yeboah and Nilson Angulo each hit the crossbar during the first half, while Ivory Coast’s Elye Wahi rattled the bar in the 52nd minute after connecting with a dangerous cross from Yan Diomande.
Ecuador, which entered the tournament on a 19-match unbeaten run, looked dangerous throughout. Gonzalo Plata nearly put La Tri ahead in the 68th minute, but his long-range effort was expertly pushed away by goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.
Ivory Coast’s disciplined defense, which conceded no goals during World Cup qualifying, held firm despite Ecuador’s pressure. Captain Franck Kessié set an aggressive tone early, helping Les Éléphants maintain their intensity throughout the match.
The victory puts Ivory Coast in a strong position in Group E ahead of a June 20 clash with four-time champion Germany, while Ecuador will seek to rebound against Curaçao.
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