Ivory Coast’s Historic World Cup Breakthrough

Ivory Coast made history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 2-0 win over Curacao. Nicolas Pepe scored twice and became the hero of the match. As a result, the Elephants reached the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time ever.

The win was more than just three points. It was a proud moment for Ivory Coast football. Meanwhile, Curacao ended their first World Cup journey with pride, even though they could not reach the next round.

Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDLtuaCoIb0&list=PLBRLtDhTHh5o&index=29

Pepe Gives Ivory Coast the Perfect Start

Ivory Coast only needed a draw to go through. However, they did not play for a safe result. Instead, coach Emerse Faé picked an attacking team and asked his players to press early.

That plan worked very quickly.

In the seventh minute, Ivory Coast won the ball on the left side. Then, Yan Diomande sent a low cross into the box. Nicolas Pepe was in the right place and finished from close range.

Thanks to that early goal, Ivory Coast played with more calm and control. Curacao, however, had to change their plan.

Pepe opened the scoring for Ivory Coast in the 7th minute. (Photo: Reuters)

Curacao Try to Fight Back

After the goal, Curacao could no longer sit deep and wait for counterattacks. Therefore, coach Dick Advocaat pushed his team higher up the pitch.

Still, it was not easy.

Ivory Coast were stronger in midfield. Franck Kessie and Ibrahim Sangaré worked hard to win the ball back. Also, the defense stayed compact and blocked many attacks.

Curacao did not give up. Leandro Bacuna and Juninho Bacuna tried to create chances. In addition, Jurgen Locadia kept working up front. However, Curacao could not find a clear way through.

On the other side, Ivory Coast looked dangerous on the break. Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande, and Bonny often found space. Even so, they lacked the final pass before halftime.

Pepe Scores Again After the Break

After halftime, Ivory Coast looked even more confident. Faé made a change in midfield to help his team keep the ball better. Because of that, Curacao found it harder to build attacks.

Then, in the 64th minute, the key moment arrived.

Sangaré played a smart pass into space. Pepe ran down the right side and stayed calm. Then, he fired a low shot into the far corner.

It was a brilliant finish. More importantly, it gave Ivory Coast a 2-0 lead and ended Curacao’s hopes of a comeback.

After that, Ivory Coast slowed the game down. They kept the ball, protected their lead, and avoided taking risks. Faé also rested key players, including Pepe, Kessie, Bonny, and Yan Diomande.

Pepe sealed a 2-0 victory for Ivory Coast in the 63rd minute. (Photo: Reuters)

A Historic Night for the Elephants

This result means a lot for Ivory Coast. For the first time, they have moved beyond the World Cup group stage.

In the past, great players such as Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, and Gervinho played for Ivory Coast at the World Cup. However, those teams never reached the knockout rounds.

Now, a new generation has done it. Pepe, Kessie, Amad Diallo, Ousmane Diomande, and Yan Diomande have opened a new chapter.

Therefore, this win will be remembered for many years. It also gives Ivory Coast belief before the next round.

Ivory Coast has advanced beyond the World Cup group stage for the first time in history. (Photo: Reuters)

Curacao Leave with Pride

Curacao’s World Cup dream is over. Even so, they can leave the tournament with their heads held high.

This was their first World Cup appearance. Therefore, every match was a huge moment for the country. Their draw against Ecuador showed their courage and discipline.

Against Ivory Coast, Curacao fought until the end. However, Pepe’s quality made the difference.

Still, this tournament can help Curacao grow. With more experience, they may return stronger in the future.

Curacao’s journey in their first-ever World Cup appearance has ended. (Photo: Reuters)

Final Score: Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast beat Curacao 2-0 and made World Cup history. Nicolas Pepe scored both goals and led the Elephants into the knockout stage for the first time.

Curacao are out, but they leave with pride. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast move forward with confidence and hope.

Goals:

Ivory Coast: Nicolas Pepe 7’, 64’

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