Ivory Coast marked his long-awaited return FIFA World Cup Substitute Imad Diallo scored in the 90th minute in dramatic fashion to beat Ecuador 1-0 in a thrilling Group E encounter at the Philadelphia Stadium on Monday morning.Appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 2014, Les Elephants were previously destined for a goalless draw. Manchester United Winger Diallo produced a moment of brilliance at the death. Latching onto Wilfried Sango’s surging run from the right, the substitute calmly slotted a left-footed effort past diving goalkeeper Hernán Galández to give his side a priceless three points.The late winner moved Ivory Coast level on points with Germany, who thrashed Curaçao 7-1 in their opening group match.
Emad delivers when it matters most.
The match was an entertaining affair long before Diallo’s intervention. Backed by a crowd of more than 68,000 in the yellow colors of La Tri, Ecuador came close several times in the first half.John Yeboh rattled the crossbar with a powerful effort before Nelson Angolo also hit the woodwork after being played in by Pedro White. Despite Ecuador’s bright start, Ivory Coast gradually grew into the contest through the lively Yann Diomonde.The 19-year-old Leipzig forward, who became the first teenager to represent Ivory Coast at a World Cup, constantly troubled the Ecuadorian defense with his pace and direct running. His dangerous balls created several chances, one of which hit the crossbar in the 52nd minute for Alli Wahi.
The woodwork denies both sides before the decisive blow.
The second half was open, with Ecuador captain Ener Valencia and Gonzalo Plata both threatening, while goalkeeper Yahya Fofana made a fine save to keep the Africans level.As Ecuador’s 19-match unbeaten run looked set to survive, Ivory Coast seized the decisive moment. Diallo, introduced midway through the second half, proved to be the difference maker, sending the traveling supporters into wild celebration with his injury-time winner.Returning to football’s biggest stage after a 12-year absence, Ivory Coast have taken a big step towards reaching the knockout stages for the first time in their history.They next face four-time champions Germany, while Ecuador will look to bounce back against World Cup debutants Corao.
