Caicedo started in central midfield for Ecuador, who went into the contest having not lost a match since September 2024.

They looked the more dangerous team in the first half, hitting the crossbar twice through John Yeboah and Alan Minda. A classic Caicedo tackle high up the pitch had started the attack from which Minda should have scored.

Ivory Coast carried a threat too, though, and it was their turn to strike the woodwork when Elye Wahi steered a shot against the bar early in the second half.

It looked like both teams would have to settle for a goalless draw, but there was to be late drama. Ivory Coast right-back Wilfried Singo embarked on a powerful run down the right flank before finding Amad Diallo, who cutely guided a first-time effort into the bottom corner.

The 90th-minute goal brought an end to Ecuador’s 19-game unbeaten run. They will look to get back to winning ways when they play Curacao – who lost 7-1 to Germany earlier on Sunday – next weekend.