For their entry into Group E of the 2026 World Cup, Ivory Coast secured a valuable victory (1-0) against Ecuador.

The Elephants struggled against an Ecuadorian side that enjoyed slightly more possession. However, the South Americans paid the price for their lack of precision in the final pass or shot, despite several promising opportunities. In the first half, they notably hit the Ivorian crossbar twice, missing chances to take the lead.

The Ivorian team, cautious in their approach and sometimes struggling to move forward, showed clinical finishing in the final moments of the match. Just when it seemed the game was heading for a draw, Amad Diallo popped up in the 90th minute to secure the victory for his side.

Thanks to this victory, Ivory Coast joins Germany at the top of Group E. Earlier in the day, the Mannschaft had made a strong statement by crushing Curaçao 7-1.

This victory allows the Elephants to ideally launch their world campaign before the clash against Germany, which is already shaping up to be decisive for first place in the group.