Jakarta Aktual – 15 June 2026 | The FIFA World Cup brought a thrilling start to the tournament as Ivory Coast took on Ecuador in a closely contested match. Despite Elye Wahi‘s missed chance when his shot hit the crossbar in the 52nd minute, Ivory Coast managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in the 90th minute. Amad Diallo‘s left-footed shot from just inside the penalty area broke through the Ecuadorian defense, beating diving goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez. The Ivory Coast team, led by coach Emerse Faé, is off to a great start in their World Cup campaign, aiming to change their history of not making the knockout round in three previous World Cups.
The match saw both teams struggling to find an opening, with Ecuador’s John Yeboah and Nilson Angulo hitting the crossbar in the opening half. Despite being outnumbered in the stands, pockets of orange-wearing fans supporting Côte d’Ivoire showed their dedication and enthusiasm, with sisters Fanta and Rokya Sylla traveling from Montreal and Sharon Hill, respectively, to support their team.
A near-record crowd of 68,274 fans, mostly wearing Ecuadorian yellow jerseys, filled the South Philly stadium, creating an electric atmosphere. The Ivory Coast team’s base camp at Chester’s Subaru Park and their hotel in Wilmington had fan events since the squad arrived in the U.S., showcasing the team’s strong connection with their fans.
As the tournament continues, Ivory Coast’s victory over Ecuador has sent shockwaves through the football world, highlighting the team’s determination and ambition. Elye Wahi’s missed chance will undoubtedly be remembered as a turning point in the match, but it was ultimately Diallo’s goal that secured the win for Ivory Coast.
The next match for Philly’s crowd will be between five-time champions Brazil and Haiti, which returns to the World Cup for the first time since its debut in 1974. The match will be held on Friday, June 19 at 8:30 p.m.
