The Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire recorded Africa’s first victory at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Ecuador 1-0 in a closely contested encounter.
Manchester United forward Ahmad Diallo emerged as the hero for the Ivorians, scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute to hand his side a crucial three points and boost their hopes of progressing in the tournament.
The West Africans had battled resolutely throughout the match before Diallo’s late strike broke Ecuador’s resistance and secured a memorable victory.
However, it was a disappointing outing for Tunisia, who suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat against Sweden.
The Swedes dominated proceedings, with Ayari netting a brace, while Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and Mattias Svanberg also got on the scoresheet to complete an emphatic win.
Tunisia’s only consolation goal came through Rekik, but it proved insufficient as the Carthage Eagles endured a difficult start to their World Cup campaign.
