Amad Diallo's goal in the closing stages gave the Ivory Coast Elephants a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match, played in Philadelphia.

The contest was a fiercely competitive, end-to-end affair, with both sides creating chances throughout, but it was the Manchester United winger who settled the tie with a late strike to seal all three points for the Elephants.

The win marks a perfect start to the tournament for Ivory Coast, who will take confidence from this result as the group stage intensifies.