World Cup: Caicedo’s Ecuador beaten by Ivory Coast | News | Official Site

Moises Caicedo played the full game as Ecuador’s long unbeaten run was ended by Ivory Coast in their opening group fixture at the World Cup.

Caicedo started in central midfield for Ecuador, who went into the contest having not lost a match since September 2024.

They looked the more dangerous team in the first half, hitting the crossbar twice through John Yeboah and Alan Minda. A classic Caicedo tackle high up the pitch had started the attack from which Minda should have scored.

Ivory Coast carried a threat too, though, and it was their turn to strike the woodwork when Elye Wahi steered a shot against the bar early in the second half.

It looked like both teams would have to settle for a goalless draw, but there was to be late drama. Ivory Coast right-back Wilfried Singo embarked on a powerful run down the right flank before finding Amad Diallo, who cutely guided a first-time effort into the bottom corner.

The 90th-minute goal brought an end to Ecuador’s 19-game unbeaten run. They will look to get back to winning ways when they play Curacao – who lost 7-1 to Germany earlier on Sunday – next weekend.