Ivory Coast stun Ecuador with last-minute win
Photo: REUTERS
Ivory Coast marked their return to the World Cup stage after a 12-year hiatus with a memorable victory.
Facing them was Ecuador, a South American side that arrived at the tournament on the back of an impressive 19-match unbeaten run. However, a sensational 90th-minute goal from Amad Diallo secured a 1-0 victory, making the African nation’s comeback a truly grand occasion.
Ecuador entered the World Cup with high expectations after a stellar performance in the Latin American qualifiers, where they finished second, ahead of Brazil and Colombia.
Despite their record-breaking unbeaten streak, Ecuador struggled to find their rhythm against Ivory Coast. Throughout the match, Ivory Coast asserted their dominance through raw power, a fighting spirit, and an aggressive brand of football.
The deadlock persisted throughout the first half at Philadelphia Stadium and remained unbroken until the 89th minute. Just as the final whistle approached, Diallo shattered the stalemate, plunging Ecuador into disappointment.
The Manchester United star clinically finished a brilliant assist from Wilfried Singo to hand Ivory Coast this historic triumph.