"It's always great to start with a win to help with the confidence," said Diomande, who has attracted interest from a number of Europe's top clubs after an excellent season with RB Leipzig.

"We know Ecuador is a big team. We had to be patient and wait for our opportunity and we got the goal."

The West Africans are appearing at their fourth FIFA World Cup but the first since 2014. They have never made it past the group stage but are well placed to do so with games still to come against Germany and Curacao.

"We haven't come here just to be part of it all. We want to make history," said Diomande.

He will face some familiar faces when the Ivorians take on four-time FIFA World Cup winners Germany, packed with Bundesliga stars, in Toronto on Saturday. Germany thrashed Curacao 7-1 to open their account on Sunday.

"We'll do everything we can to win the next match," said Diomande.

"We know that playing against Germany is a tough game and they are one of the biggest teams in the world. We're waiting for them, but the most important thing is to stay calm and be humble."

The loss snapped a 19-match unbeaten run for Ecuador dating back to September.

"It's difficult to start with a loss," admitted captain Enner Valencia. "This squad has a history of coming through difficult situations. This will be just another one. I'm sure we'll pull through."

Sources: AFP, FIFA via Getty Images