World Cup 2026: Why Amad Diallo could be Ivory Coast’s game-changer – Ex-Super Eagles star

Former Super Eagles midfielder Sam Elijah has identified one key player who could become the main man for Ivory Coast in their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Elephants are back on football’s biggest stage for the first time since 2014, after missing the last two tournaments. However, they did not let the occasion overwhelm them in their opening clash against Ecuador.

Instead, they went toe-to-toe with the South American side, who had qualified for three of the last four editions and were unbeaten in 19 matches. Ivory Coast eventually secured a 1-0 win to move top of their group.

The match was an end-to-end contest, with both teams hitting the woodwork in search of a breakthrough. 

Just when it looked like the match would end in a draw, Manchester United forward Amad Diallo struck on the stroke of normal time to secure all three points for Ivory Coast, as they sit top of group E alongside Germany, who thrashed Curacao 7-1.

Sam Elijah explains how Amad Diallo can power Ivory Coast’s World Cup push

Ivory Coast became the first African nation to record a win at the 2026 World Cup after their 1-0 victory over Ecuador while several other African teams have struggled.

Elijah praised the Ivorian players for their performance, especially considering the strength and quality of their opponents.

“Honestly speaking, it’s just like I said. You know the Ivorian players for resilience, commitment, and hard work”, the former Super Eagles midfielder told Footy-Africa.

“So I’m not surprised. I tell you, watch out for more, because with this first win, they will fight to the end. So, I will say kudos to the Ivorians.”

The former Nigeria U-20 international also stressed that Amad has a major role to play if Ivory Coast are to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their history.

In their previous three World Cup appearances, Ivory Coast have been eliminated at the group stage each time. However, they are now just a win away from securing a place in the next round.

Elijah believes the Manchester United star could be their game-changer, pointing to his strong form, having scored in back-to-back games for his country.

“Wow, that’s their star player, and I tell you, with the first win, he’s going to carry the Ivorians on his back. He knows what is expected of him as a big player, a Premier League player. So I think he’s going to carry them far, very far. I believe that”, he added.

Ivory Coast return to action on Saturday when they face Germany, with a chance to seal qualification for the Round of 32. They will conclude their group-stage campaign against minnows Curacao on June 25.