Ivory Coast beat Ecuador 2-1 on Tuesday thanks to a last-gasp goal from Amad Diallo. The Manchester United winger struck in the 89th minute to secure the win in what was a preparation match for the upcoming World Cup. It wasn't a friendly that'll live long in the memory — but it gave both sides a sharp workout.
A game of two halves
Ecuador started brightly, pressing high and forcing early errors from the Ivorian defense. They took the lead in the 23rd minute through a well-worked move that sliced open the Elephants' backline. But Ivory Coast grew into the match. They equalized just before halftime after a scramble in the box. The second half was tight, with neither side creating much — until Diallo popped up.
Diallo's moment
The 21-year-old came off the bench in the 72nd minute. He's been struggling for game time at Old Trafford, but he showed his quality in the closing stages. Receiving the ball on the right flank, he cut inside onto his left foot and curled a shot past the Ecuador goalkeeper into the far corner. It wasn't pretty, but it was precise. The goal killed the game.
What the match means
For Ivory Coast, it's a boost ahead of the World Cup. They've got a young squad and Diallo's emergence adds depth. Ecuador, meanwhile, will be concerned about their ability to close out matches. They dominated large parts but couldn't find a second goal. Manager Gustavo Alfaro will want his team to be more clinical.
Both sides now head into their final preparations. Ivory Coast faces a friendly against Saudi Arabia next week. Ecuador travels to face Japan. Those games will give a clearer picture of their World Cup readiness. For now, though, it's Diallo who grabbed the headlines.
