Amad Diallo wrote himself into Ivory Coast folklore with a 90th‑minute strike that sealed a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Philadelphia, turning a substitute appearance into a milestone. The Manchester United winger kept his composure to finish clinically at the death, delivering three priceless points for the Elephants.
At 23 years and 11 months, Diallo is now the youngest Ivorian to score at a World Cup — a landmark that caps his rise from United’s ranks to the global stage. His late intervention came after Ecuador had largely dominated the contest, and the winner also marks Africa’s first triumph at the 2026 tournament.
The result lifts Ivory Coast into second place in Group E on three points, trailing Germany on goal difference. Earlier on matchday, Germany ran riot in Houston with a 7-1 rout of Curaçao, announcing themselves as early group favourites; Kai Havertz netted twice among the scorers. Group E standings after Matchday 1: Germany top (+6), Ivory Coast second (+1), Ecuador third (-1), Curaçao fourth (-6).
