Nicolas Pepe’s Brace Sends Ivory Coast into World Cup Knockout Stage for the First Time

Manchester, June 2026: Nicolas Pepe delivered a match-winning performance with two superb goals as Ivory Coast defeated Curacao 2-0 in their final Group E clash at the FIFA World Cup, securing a historic place in the knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history.

Playing at Philadelphia Stadium, the African side showcased composure and attacking quality to overcome a spirited Curacao outfit. The victory ensured Ivory Coast finished second in Group E and booked a place in the Round of 32, where they will face either Norway or France in Dallas on Wednesday.

Ivory Coast made an ideal start, taking the lead just seven minutes into the contest. Yan Diomande’s relentless pressing forced Curacao into losing possession, and the youngster unselfishly squared the ball to Pepe, who calmly slotted home from close range. The strike not only settled the nerves of the Ivorians but also became the fastest World Cup goal ever scored by the country.

Curacao attempted to respond positively, enjoying periods of possession and pushing players forward in search of an equaliser. However, the debut World Cup participants struggled to penetrate an organised Ivory Coast defence, with clear-cut opportunities proving difficult to create.

As Curacao committed more players in attack, spaces began to open up at the other end. Ivory Coast capitalised in the 64th minute when Ibrahim Sangare produced a perfectly weighted through ball for Pepe. The experienced forward timed his run to perfection before curling a brilliant left-footed effort into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and effectively sealing the contest.

The two-goal cushion allowed Ivory Coast to control the closing stages comfortably as they saw out the match without major scares, completing a memorable evening for the West African nation.

The victory marks a significant milestone for Ivory Coast, who had previously failed to progress beyond the group stage in their three earlier FIFA World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010 and 2014. After years of disappointment on football’s biggest stage, the Elephants finally broke the barrier to reach the knockout rounds.

For Curacao, whose maiden World Cup campaign came to an end in Philadelphia, the tournament nevertheless represented a historic achievement. Despite exiting in the group stage, the Caribbean nation earned admiration for its competitive displays and will cherish its first-ever appearance at the global showpiece.

Speaking after the match, Pepe dedicated his performance to the team and the supporters back home.

“It is a source of pride and joy. Qualifying for the knockout stage is something special for the people of Côte d’Ivoire. My two goals were only possible because of the team’s work. Yan Diomande created the first chance brilliantly, while Ibrahim Sangare’s pass for the second was exceptional. I simply had to finish,” he said.

The 30-year-old added that the team remains focused on progressing further in the competition.

“It is an individual honour, but above all it is a team achievement. We are taking it one game at a time. We have the players and the quality to go far in this tournament. Now we need to stay focused, recover well, and prepare for whoever awaits us in the next round,” Pepe said.

With confidence growing and momentum firmly on their side, Ivory Coast will now aim to extend their dream World Cup run as they prepare for their historic first appearance in the knockout phase.

Team Maverick