Amad Diallo leads 2026 World Cup with 6 successful dribbles
The Manchester United winger is making defenders look silly in his first-ever World Cup appearance for Ivory Coast
Amad Diallo has completed more successful dribbles than any other player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, racking up six in the tournament’s early stages.
The Manchester United winger has been one of the standout performers in the opening rounds of the tournament, combining his dribbling ability with match-winning impact. His six completed dribbles top every other player in the competition.
A debut to remember against Ecuador
Diallo’s World Cup story started with drama. Coming off the bench in the 56th minute against Ecuador on June 14, he needed just 34 minutes of game time to write himself into Ivory Coast football history.
His 90th-minute winner sealed a 1-0 victory. It was Ivory Coast’s first World Cup win in 12 years, stretching all the way back to 2014, the last time the Elephants even qualified for the tournament.
Building a case as Ivory Coast’s talisman
Diallo’s World Cup form didn’t materialize out of thin air. In a warm-up friendly against France on June 4, he completed 2 successful dribbles out of 3 attempts, a 66.67% success rate against one of the tournament favorites.
At 20 senior caps and 7 goals for Ivory Coast heading into the tournament, Diallo’s international record is remarkably productive. That’s roughly a goal every three appearances for a wide player.
What this means for Manchester United and beyond
Diallo has spent the past couple of seasons establishing himself in Manchester United’s first team. He also contributed three goals and one assist at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, securing his place in the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For now, no player at the 2026 World Cup has beaten more defenders with ball at feet than the 23-year-old who came off the bench and scored a 90th-minute winner in his first ever World Cup match.
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