South American teams have endured a difficult start to the 2026 World Cup, with two defeats and a draw raising early questions about how CONMEBOL sides stack up against rivals from other confederations.
Ecuador opened its campaign against Ivory Coast on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The side, coached by Argentine Sebastián Beccacece, suffered a 1-0 defeat after Manchester United winger Amad Diallo struck in the closing moments.
The scoreline was harsh on La Tri, which produced one of its better performances in recent months. Ecuador hit the woodwork twice in the first half through Alan Minda and John Yeboah, while the Ivorians were denied by the post after the break.
Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, defender Wilfried Singo surged forward on the right flank and delivered a low cross for Diallo, who converted in the final minute of regulation to end Ecuador’s 19-match unbeaten run.
The result leaves Ecuador facing an uphill battle in Group E. Germany — which defeated Curaçao 7-1 in its first match — is widely expected to top the group, making the race for second place crucial.
