Ivory Coast Makes History with First Ever World Cup Knockout Stage Berth at Curacao's Expense
PHILADELPHIA — The Ivory Coast Men's National Team has secured a spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time, 12 years after their last appearance.
Emerse Fae's squad defeated Curacao 2-0 on Thursday at Philadelphia Stadium, with Nicolas Pepe scoring a brace in each half.
The 31-year-old Pepe's goals were set up by 19-year-old playmaker Yan Diomande and a clever through ball pass from Ibrahim Sangare.
This marks Pepe's second international goal of 2026 and his first brace since 2018.
Ivory Coast's backline, led by goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, recorded their second clean sheet of the tournament.
Fae, who took charge in January 2024, has led the team to 24 wins in 35 matches, including the African Cup of Nations title in 2024.
With two victories in Group E, Ivory Coast will face either France or Norway in the Round of 32, having already upset 2018 World Cup winners France 1-0 earlier this year.
Emerse Fae's squad defeated Curacao 2-0 on Thursday at Philadelphia Stadium, with Nicolas Pepe scoring a brace in each half.
The 31-year-old Pepe's goals were set up by 19-year-old playmaker Yan Diomande and a clever through ball pass from Ibrahim Sangare.
This marks Pepe's second international goal of 2026 and his first brace since 2018.
Ivory Coast's backline, led by goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, recorded their second clean sheet of the tournament.
Fae, who took charge in January 2024, has led the team to 24 wins in 35 matches, including the African Cup of Nations title in 2024.
With two victories in Group E, Ivory Coast will face either France or Norway in the Round of 32, having already upset 2018 World Cup winners France 1-0 earlier this year.
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