FT: Côte d’Ivoire 1-0 Ecuador
Amad Diallo scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner as Côte d’Ivoire opened their FIFA World Cup Group E campaign with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador.
The Manchester United winger, who started on the bench, came on to deliver the decisive moment in a tense and entertaining contest. Amad guided a left-footed finish into the bottom corner after a powerful run by Wilfried Singo, sending Côte d’Ivoire top of Group E.
The match had appeared to be heading for a goalless draw despite both sides creating several chances and striking the woodwork four times.
Ecuador made the brighter start and nearly went ahead when John Yeboah’s powerful effort from outside the area crashed against the crossbar. Alan Minda also struck the bar after being played through by Pedro Vite, with goalkeeper Yahia Fofana beaten.
Côte d’Ivoire gradually grew into the game, with Yan Diomande causing problems on the right wing. Bazoumana Toure also forced a fingertip save from Hernan Galindez as the Ivorians searched for a breakthrough.
The chances continued after the interval. Enner Valencia struck the post from a tight angle for Ecuador, while Elye Wahi hit the crossbar with a first-time effort for Côte d’Ivoire.
Ecuador defended well for long periods, but their resistance was broken in the final minute of normal time when Amad showed composure to finish clinically and secure all three points.
The result ended Ecuador’s 19-match unbeaten run and gave Côte d’Ivoire a major boost in their bid to reach the knockout stages for the first time.
Amad said the victory reflected the team’s ambition.
“We came here to make history,” he said. “We still have two more matches ahead of us, and we need to approach them with the same mentality.”
Yan Diomande, who became the first teenager to play for Côte d’Ivoire at a World Cup, said the team was proud to represent the nation.
“We are playing for our families, our friends and our loved ones,” he said. “We want to make our mark on history.”
Côte d’Ivoire will face Germany in their next Group E match, while Ecuador will take on Curaçao.
