United star speaks up on his moment of magic after inspiring nation to famous World Cup victory

Manchester United forward Amad has shared his verdict after inspiring the Ivory Coast to a stunning victory over Ecuador in their World Cup opener. Heroic Amad Despite standing out for the Ivory Coast and netting the winning goal against France in the nation’s previous outing, Amad was named on the bench. Team boss Emerse Fae opted for Bazoumana Toure and Yan Diomande on either wing. Ecuador emerged as the more threatening side during the first half, twice striking the crossbar courtesy of John Yeboah and Alan Minda. But the Ivory Coast gradually grew into the game and eventually took control. Diomande, who has been linked with a move to United, was particularly a thorn in Ecuador’s side, although some of his final actions were lacking. Elye Wahi then hit the crossbar for Fae’s side in the second half, before Amad and Ange-Yoan Bonny were introduced and breathed fresh life into the Ivorians. Amad delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time. The United man sidefooted a superb ball from Wilfried Singo into the back of the net. His goal sparked wild celebrations as the Ivory Coast kicked off their World Cup campaign with a win. In scoring, Amad became the youngest scorer in the country’s finals history. Statisticians Opta note that despite only being introduced in the 56th minute, Amad no player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has totalled more successful take-ons than Amad did against Ecuador. Amad Diallo only came on in the 56th minute for Ivory Coast, but no player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has totalled more successful take-ons than he managed tonight versus Ecuador (5). pic.twitter.com/1sfUPRTsqs — Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) June 15, 2026 Amad’s reaction Amad told the media, “We knew it was going to be a difficult match because we know the Ecuadorian players are physically strong.” “We couldn’t play into their hands. We had to impose our own game and that is what we tried to do.” He added, “They put us in trouble on several occasions, obviously, but we stayed clear-headed, we stayed focused. We continued to believe in our chances until the end.” “In the end, we gained three points and now we need to focus on the next two matches.” Amad and his countrymen will now turn their attention to Saturday’s meeting with Germany in Toronto. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!