Wilfried Singo made the crucial run forward to set up Amad, who finished for Ivory Coast's first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ecuador had several big chances over the course of the match, including hitting the crossbar twice in the first half. By full time, Ecuador had hit the woodwork three times and Ivory Coast once before the deadlock was broken.
The result leaves Ivory Coast level with Germany on three points atop Group E after the Germans' 7-1 win over Curacao earlier in the day. Referee Francois Letexier blew the final whistle on an entertaining match that appeared to deserve a goal.
Ecuador's long defensive run ended with the defeat. It was the first goal they have conceded in an official match since March 2025, when they gave up an added-time goal against Venezuela in a match they still 2-1. At 0-0 with full time approaching, Ecuador had looked set to extend a team-record unbeaten streak to 20 games, but the run ended at 19 with eight wins and 12 draws.
Ecuador reaction
Sebastian Beccacece spoke to Ecuadorian television after the loss.
We played well in the first half, created clear chances. The defeat hurts but this is just the start of the competition.
Moises Caicedo swung in a corner with seconds left in stoppage time, but Ecuador could not find an equalizer. Two minutes after setting up the winner, Singo also produced a superb defensive header at the back post to help preserve the clean sheet.
Ivory Coast supporter Dolle Zabo highlighted the quality of the traveling fan support after the win.
It didn't matter how many they had, it's the quality, that's what we're trying to portray.
Yan Diomande drew attention with an electric performance on both flanks, though he did not find the net. The narrow loss leaves Ecuador with little room for error in the rest of the group stage.
