Ivory Coast secured a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history after defeating Curaçao 2-0 in their final Group E match on Thursday in Philadelphia.
Nicolas Pépé scored in each half to guide the Elephants to a victory that confirmed them as Group E runners-up and booked a Round of 32 clash against the runners-up from Group I in Dallas on 30 June.
Needing only a win to progress, Ivory Coast made the perfect start when Pépé tapped home in the seventh minute after a low cross from Yan Diomandé.
The early goal settled Emerse Faé’s side, who controlled possession and dictated the tempo for much of the contest.
Curaçao responded with a number of attacks before halftime. Tahith Chong fired over the crossbar, while captain Leandro Bacuna dragged an effort wide.
Their best chance came from a corner just before the break, but Ange-Yoan Bonny cleared Sherel Floranus Gaari’s effort off the line to preserve Ivory Coast’s lead.
The Elephants remained organised after the restart and doubled their advantage in the 64th minute. Ibrahim Sangaré released Pépé on the right, and the winger cut inside before curling a superb left-footed strike into the far corner to complete his brace.
Goalkeeper Yahia Fofana also made an important save to deny Chong as Curaçao searched for a way back into the game, while substitute Elye Wahi nearly added a third goal late on.
The final whistle confirmed a landmark victory for Ivory Coast, who finally advanced beyond the group stage after falling short in their previous World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010 and 2014.
Faé’s side finished the group stage with wins over Ecuador and Curaçao, while their only defeat came against Germany. Their impressive campaign now continues in the Round of 32 as they chase another piece of history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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