World Cup: Man Utd’s Amad Seals Ivory Coast Victory Over Ecuador

Ivory Coast boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Manchester United winger Amad Diallo came off the bench to score a dramatic late winner in a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Philadelphia.

The Premier League star struck in the 90th minute to hand the Elephants a memorable victory and end Ecuador’s impressive 19-match unbeaten run that had stretched for nearly two years.

Amad, who was surprisingly left out of the starting line-up for Ivory Coast’s first World Cup appearance in 12 years, proved decisive after being introduced from the bench. The winger calmly guided the ball into the bottom corner with his left foot following a powerful run and assist from Wilfried Singo.

The victory significantly strengthens Ivory Coast’s chances of advancing from Group E, which also features Germany and Curacao, and keeps alive their dream of reaching the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history.

Despite the defeat, Ecuador created several scoring opportunities and were unlucky not to find the net. John Yeboah and Alan Minda both struck the crossbar in the first half, while veteran captain Enner Valencia hit the post from a tight angle after the break.

The match remained closely contested throughout, with Ecuador struggling to test Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana until the 68th minute when Gonzalo Plata forced the shot-stopper into action with the South Americans’ first effort on target.

Ivory Coast also came close to scoring earlier in the second half when Nice forward Elye Wahi rattled the crossbar.

However, it was Amad who delivered the decisive moment, ensuring the African champions secured a famous victory and took a major step towards qualification for the next round.