Cote d’Ivoire opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic, hard-fought 1–0 victory over Ecuador. The match was defined by a physical, gritty battle in the midfield, as the Ivorians picked up three first-half yellow cards—Seko Fofana, Franck Kessié, and Guéla Doué—within a twelve-minute span to keep a high-tempo Ecuador side at bay. Despite La Tri's best efforts to dictate terms, the Elephants remained compact and organized, absorbing pressure before initiating a second-half chess match of tactical substitutions.

Both managers looked to break the deadlock in the second half through a flurry of personnel changes. Ecuador's head coach introduced Alan Minda at the 56th minute, while Cote d’Ivoire responded by bringing on Bazoumana Touré and Elye Wahi. The physical edge continued to dominate the game, culminating in Ecuador's Jackson Porozo receiving a caution in the 73rd minute. As the clock ticked down, further changes saw Nicolas Pépé replace Seko Fofana and Enner Valencia enter the fray for La Tri, setting up a frantic grand finale.

The definitive breakthrough finally materialized in the 90th minute. With the match seemingly destined for a goalless draw, winger Amad Diallo stepped up to deliver a sensational strike that hit the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations for the Elephants. The last-gasp winner secures a vital three points for Cote d'Ivoire in Group E, positioning them perfectly ahead of their next fixtures, while leaving a gutted Ecuador side with zero room for error.