Amad Diallo's Late Strike Sinks Ecuador and Ends 19-Game Unbeaten Run

Ivory Coast began their World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 win over Ecuador at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, substitute Amad Diallo settling matters in the 90th minute to hand Emerse Fae's side a perfect start and the Elephants' first World Cup victory in 12 years.

Ecuador rue their misses

Ecuador were the dominant side for long spells and looked the likelier scorers in a first half that ended goalless. John Yeboah and Alan Minda both rattled the crossbar inside the opening half-hour as the woodwork was struck three times across the contest. For all their territory and chances, Ecuador could not find the breakthrough their play deserved.

Diallo's decisive cameo

A surprise omission from the starting line-up, Diallo was introduced for Bazoumana Touré 10 minutes into the second half and proved the difference. A fine run down the flank from Wilfried Singo ended with a square ball that the Manchester United winger sidefooted home calmly at the death. The result ended Ecuador's 19-game unbeaten streak and gave Ivory Coast three precious points.