Ivory Coast make history with 2–0 win over Curacao to reach knockouts

KATHMANDU: Ivory Coast have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history after a confident 2–0 victory over Curaçao, powered by a brace from Nicolas Pépé.

The Group E match, played at the Philadelphia Stadium, saw Pépé emerge as the decisive figure, while Yan Diomandé also delivered an outstanding performance in a well-controlled display from the African side.

Following a narrow 2–1 defeat to Germany, Ivory Coast made four changes to their starting lineup, with Villarreal forward Pépé among the key inclusions—and he immediately justified his selection.

The breakthrough came as early as the 7th minute. Diomandé delivered a precise cross after a sharp move near the edge of the penalty area, allowing Pépé to finish from close range. The goal marked Ivory Coast’s fastest-ever strike in World Cup history.

After taking the lead, Ivory Coast maintained control of possession, dictating the tempo even if their attacking play was less intense than in previous matches.

Curaçao, however, created several promising chances. Tahith Chong came close in the first half with a powerful effort that sailed just over the crossbar, while captain Leandro Bacuna later weaved past two defenders before narrowly missing the target.

Pépé doubled the lead in the 64th minute with a composed finish, combining brilliantly with Ibrahim Sangaré in a quick one-two before rounding goalkeeper Eloy Room and slotting home.

Curaçao, making their World Cup debut, ended their campaign with just one point. Despite their early exit, their historic participation will be remembered as a proud milestone for the nation.

With this result, Ivory Coast finish second in Group E and progress to the Round of 32, where they will face the runners-up of Group I on June 30 in Dallas. Germany topped the group, while Ecuador finished third with four points despite a 2–1 defeat.

Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Pépé said: “Reaching the knockout stage is a matter of pride for our country. My two goals were possible because of excellent teamwork. Diomandé provided a brilliant assist for the first, and Sangaré’s pass was perfect for the second. We have quality players, and we want to go as far as possible. Now we must recover and prepare for the next match.”

Head coach Emerse Faé also expressed pride in his team’s achievement, saying: “We are extremely proud. We knew it would not be easy, but we succeeded. Finishing second in the group and reaching the knockouts is a great achievement. The country can celebrate today, but our ambition is to go further.”