Amad Diallo, the Manchester United winger, scored a 90th-minute winner for Ivory Coast in their 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match played in Philadelphia.
The goal came after Diallo was introduced as a substitute in the 56th minute, replacing Bazoumana Toure. He converted a cross from Singo with a left-footed shot, securing all three points for the Ivory Coast.
The match saw a flurry of near misses, with Ecuador hitting the woodwork three times through Yeboah, Minda, and Valencia. Ivory Coast also struck the crossbar through Wahi in the second half. The game was largely open, with both sides creating opportunities, but failing to convert them until Diallo’s late intervention.
Diallo has struggled for consistent playing time at Manchester United since his arrival from Atalanta in 2021, but remains highly regarded by the club. He spent last season on loan at Sunderland, where he impressed with his dribbling ability and creativity, making 37 appearances and scoring 13 goals. This goal for Ivory Coast will be a boost for his confidence as he looks to break into the Manchester United first team.
The win puts Ivory Coast top of Group E alongside Germany, who defeated Curacao 7-1. Ecuador now face an uphill battle to qualify from the group. Fellow Premier League players Ndicka of Roma and Bonny of Inter Milan were also involved for Ivory Coast, with Ndicka coming on as a late substitute and Bonny playing for just under an hour. Kossounou of Atalanta also featured late in the game.
This result demonstrates Ivory Coast’s potential in the qualifying campaign and highlights Diallo's importance to the national team.
