Ivory Coast defeated Ecuador 1-0 in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, held Monday as part of Group Five’s first round. The decisive goal came in the final minute of the second half, scored by Amad Diallo. This victory awards Ivory Coast three crucial points as they begin their campaign in the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams battling for early dominance in the group. Diallo’s late strike proved to be the difference, securing a positive start for the Ivorian team. Further details regarding Group Five’s composition were not provided in the initial report.