Africa celebrated its first triumph at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Amad’s dramatic late strike propelled Côte d’Ivoire to a gritty 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their thrilling Group E opener on Monday.
The Elephants seemed headed for a stalemate, but Amad’s brilliance in the 90th minute shattered the deadlock, clinching all three points for the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions.
This victory stands as the first by an African nation in the newly expanded 48-team tournament, igniting early hope that the continent can leave a lasting mark on football’s grandest stage.
Ivory Coast endured relentless waves of Ecuadorian attacks throughout the match. The South Americans nearly broke through, rattling the crossbar twice in the first half and threatening with several dangerous opportunities.
Despite the onslaught, the Ivorians held firm and stayed organized at the back, seizing their chance late in the game. Amad’s decisive goal unleashed scenes of pure joy among players and fans as Côte d’Ivoire celebrated a memorable start to their campaign.
The result leaves the Elephants level on three points with Germany at the top of Group E after the Europeans recorded a commanding 7-1 victory over Curaçao in the group’s other match.
With the World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams, Africa is represented by ten nations at this year’s tournament. Côte d’Ivoire’s success delivers the continent’s first win of the competition following the opening round of fixtures.
South Africa, Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire, and Tunisia have already begun their campaigns, while Ghana, Egypt, Algeria, DR Congo, and Cabo Verde are still preparing for their opening matches.
