Nicolas Pepe scored twice as Ivory Coast defeated Curacao 2-0 on Thursday, securing a place in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in the nation’s history and ending Curacao’s memorable tournament campaign.
The former Arsenal winger, now playing for Villarreal in Spain, struck early and late at Lincoln Financial Field to guide the Elephants into the last 32.
Pepe opened the scoring in the seventh minute after a bright start from Ivory Coast. The experienced forward then sealed the victory just after the hour mark, ensuring the African champions advanced from Group E.
The result leaves Ivory Coast with six points from three matches, following their opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador and a narrow 2-1 defeat to Germany. Despite finishing level on points with Germany, the Ivorians take second place in the group due to the head-to-head record.
Germany topped the group despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in New Jersey in the other Group E match.
Historic Achievement for the Elephants
The 2024 African champions had never progressed beyond the group stage in their previous three World Cup appearances. Their qualification marks a significant milestone for Ivorian football.
Ivory Coast will now travel to Dallas for a last-32 clash next Tuesday against the runners-up of Group I. That could potentially set up a difficult encounter against either France or Norway.
Several members of the Ivorian squad, including Pepe, were born in France, adding extra intrigue should the two nations meet.
Curacao Exit with Pride
Although Curacao finished bottom of the group without a victory, the Caribbean nation leaves the tournament with its reputation enhanced.
With a population of approximately 160,000, Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup finals. Their campaign began with a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany, but they earned widespread praise after holding Ecuador to a goalless draw in their second match.
Managed by veteran coach Dick Advocaat, Curacao once again showed resilience despite falling short against Ivory Coast.
Early Breakthrough
Ivory Coast supporters filled the stands with orange shirts, helping create a vibrant atmosphere among the sell-out crowd of 68,324 spectators.
The opening goal arrived after just seven minutes when highly rated youngster Yan Diomande beat his marker down the wing. The RB Leipzig player delivered a low cross into the penalty area, where Pepe calmly converted.
Curacao responded positively and created several opportunities. Jurien Gaari narrowly missed the target with a long-range effort, while Leandro Bacuna shot wide after making his way into the box late in the first half.
Sherel Floranus also came close shortly after halftime, firing an effort just over the crossbar.
Pepe Seals Victory
Curacao’s hopes faded in the 64th minute when Ibrahim Sangare produced an excellent through ball to release Pepe. The forward controlled the pass inside the penalty area before placing a composed finish beyond goalkeeper Eloy Room and into the far corner.
The second goal effectively ended the contest and sparked celebrations among the Ivory Coast supporters, who witnessed their nation achieve a historic World Cup breakthrough.
With momentum and confidence growing, the Elephants now turn their attention to the knockout stage as they seek to extend their remarkable tournament run.
