Curaçao beaten 2-0: Côte d'Ivoire in the last 32 for the first time in history

Côte d'Ivoire has achieved a historic milestone, qualifying for the second round of the FIFA 2026 World Cup for the first time. The Elephants secured their advancement by defeating Curaçao 2-0 in their decisive Group E match played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Striker Pepe was the hero of the match, scoring in the 7th minute to give Côte d'Ivoire a 1-0 lead. He extended the lead in the 64th minute, sealing the 2-0 victory. With this win, Emerse Fae's team accumulated 6 points, finishing second in their group.

Curaçao, managed by Dick Advocaat, concluded their World Cup campaign with 1 point, unable to advance. Côte d'Ivoire now prepares to face the second-placed team from Group I in the next round.

This qualification represents a significant step for Ivorian football and African representation in the tournament. It underscores the growing competitiveness of African teams on the global stage, building on the momentum from previous World Cup performances.