PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Ivory Coast delivered Africa’s first victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after substitute Amad Diallo scored a dramatic 90th‑minute winner to secure a 1-0 triumph over Ecuador in Group E on Sunday. The Manchester United winger’s strike ended the Elephants’ 12‑year wait for a World Cup win and gave the African champions a crucial three points.
Diallo, introduced shortly before the hour mark, calmly side‑footed a low cross from defender Wilfried Singo past Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez, silencing the largely Ecuadorian crowd inside Philadelphia’s stadium. Ivory Coast had earlier survived heavy pressure, with Ecuador hitting the woodwork twice in the first half through John Yeboah and Alan Minda. Elye Wahi also struck the crossbar for the Elephants, while Seko Fofana forced Galindez into a save with a powerful effort.
The victory marked a breakthrough for African football at the tournament, following South Africa’s opening defeat to Mexico and Morocco’s draw against Brazil. Ivory Coast, winners of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, last celebrated a World Cup win in 2014 against Japan. The result significantly boosts their chances of reaching the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history.
The match, attended by American rap mogul Jay‑Z, unfolded as a tactical contest between two disciplined sides. Ecuador entered the tournament with one of the strongest defensive records in South American qualifying, conceding only five goals in 18 matches. Their resilience held until Singo’s decisive surge forward broke the deadlock in the final minutes.
For Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece, the defeat was a frustrating start after his team impressed in qualifying, finishing second behind Argentina. His side will now attempt to recover against debutants Curacao in Kansas City, while Ivory Coast prepares for a crucial clash against Germany in Toronto.
Diallo’s late strike not only delivered three points but also ensured Africa celebrated its first triumph of the 2026 World Cup. For Ivory Coast, the win represents both a historic milestone and a statement of intent as the team seeks to advance further than ever before on football’s biggest stage.
