Côte d’Ivoire reached the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history, after Nicolas Pépé scored twice in a 2-0 win against Curaçao in Philadelphia, United States.
The Ivorians struck before Curaçao could settle. Yan Diomandé drove into space before cutting a low pass across the box to Pépé, who scored from close range.
It was Côte d’Ivoire’s fastest World Cup goal and immediately changed the atmosphere of the match. Curaçao had spells of possession and tried to stretch the Ivorian defence.
The rhythm slowed after the break, but Côte d’Ivoire still carried the greater threat, and the decisive second goal arrived in the 64th minute.
Ibrahim Sangaré opened up Curaçao with a fine pass to Pépé on the right, who curled a brilliant finish into the far corner, giving Room no chance. It was a goal of real quality.
Pépé’s second strike gave Côte d’Ivoire breathing space and brought the Elephants closer to the moment their supporters had waited decades to see.
From there, Faé’s side managed the game with intelligence. They did not panic, did not overcommit and did not allow Curaçao a clear route back into the contest.
The final whistle confirmed a clean, controlled and historic victory. The Elephants secured qualification and delivered with control, maturity and attacking quality.
Curaçao’s first World Cup journey ended in defeat, but their campaign will still be remembered proudly by their supporters. For Côte d’Ivoire, however, the night belonged to the Elephants.
The significance of the victory will be felt far beyond Philadelphia. For years, Côte d’Ivoire carried the weight of talented squads that could not escape the group stage.
This generation has now achieved what the Drogba and Yaya Touré eras could not. Faé’s team have shown resilience, quality and tactical growth across the group stage.
Latest World Cup results
Japan 1-1 Sweden
Tunisia 1-3 Netherlands
Ecuador 2-1 Germany.
