Ivory Coast 2–0 Curaçao | Group E | Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia | 25 June 2026
Nicolas Pépé scored twice as Ivory Coast reached the World Cup knockout stages for the first time thanks to a 2-0 victory which eliminated tournament debutants Curaçao.
The result sent Emerse Fae’s side into the knockout stages for the first time in their history. Les Éléphants only needed a draw to progress, but they wasted no time settling any nerves on a historic night in Philadelphia. The opening goal arrived in just seven minutes. Yan Diomande took advantage of Curaçao failing to clear their lines and squared for Pépé, who slotted smartly into the bottom right corner. It was the fastest goal Ivory Coast have ever scored at a World Cup.
Curaçao, who had earned a landmark point against Ecuador in their previous match, showed their battling qualities. Goalkeeper Eloy Room made a string of fine saves to keep the score respectable, and the debutants created moments of genuine threat during the first half.
The second goal arrived just after the hour mark. Ibrahim Sangaré’s incisive pass set Pépé through on goal and he buried it into the top corner to confirm the victory. Curaçao’s debut World Cup campaign ended as they finished bottom of Group E on one point.
Ivory Coast go through as Group E runners-up and will face either France or Norway in the last 32. Pépé was emotional afterwards. “It’s a source of pride and joy. We have the players and quality to go as far as possible.” Coach Fae added: “Pride is the first word that comes to mind. We knew we could do it, and we also knew it was going to be difficult. Ivory Coast deserves this.”
