Amad Diallo was dropped to the bench as the Ivory Coast suffered a 2-1 defeat against Norway in the Round of 32, only to be eliminated from the World Cup.
It came as a surprise on Tuesday evening to see Manchester United winger Amad Diallo named on the bench for the Ivory Coast’s must-win tie against Norway in the 2026 World Cup last 32.
This was the Ivory Coast’s first-ever knockout involvement at a World Cup, but head coach Emerse Faé waited until the hour mark to bring Amad on from the bench.
Amad gave a good account of himself in the final 30 minutes, but it wasn’t enough to guide the Ivory Coast into the last 16.
What is your message for Amad Diallo after suffering elimination from the World Cup with the Ivory Coast?
Amad came off the bench to score against Norway, but it wasn't enough to secure a place in the last 16. 🇨🇮❌
Amad Diallo scores after coming off the bench
Amad wasted no time getting involved after his substitution in the 60th minute.
The Ivorians were trailing by a goal and lacking creativity in the final third.
Although Amad was brought on to help the Ivory Coast create more chances, the 23-year-old prevented Norway from doubling their lead with a crucial clearance off the line.
Amad continued to make a positive difference on the game in the 74th minute when he produced a moment of magic to bring Les Éléphants level.
After playing a one-two with ex-Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe, Amad ran towards the goal, cut inside to get away from a defender and finished calmly into the far corner.
Just six minutes after his goal, Amad went down following a knock to the lower back area and required attention from the medical staff. Thankfully, he was able to continue after providing an immediate impact from the bench.
Norway took the lead again through Erling Haaland in the 85th minute and there was no way back for Amad’s side.
Only Germany’s Deniz Undav (3) has scored more goals after coming off the bench at the 2026 World Cup than Amad (2).
Amad came close to equalising again from a free-kick in the latter stages of stoppage time.
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Amad Diallo’s World Cup campaign is over
Now that Amad’s World Cup campaign is over, with Norway set to face Brazil in the last 16, the United star can enjoy some time off.
It won’t be long before Amad returns to United for pre-season, but Michael Carrick and the coaches will be keen for the versatile winger to return fully recharged for the 2026/27 campaign.
Amad performed well at the World Cup and was among the star players for the Ivory Coast.
Norway just had too much for them tonight.
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