Ivory Coast advances to World Cup knockout stage after defeating Curaçao 2-0

Ivory Coast secured its place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by achieving a comfortable victory over Curaçao in Group E. In the competitive match held on Friday morning, Ivory Coast defeated Curaçao with a score of 2-0.

Nicolas Pépé emerged as the hero for Ivory Coast, delivering an outstanding performance throughout the game. Pépé scored both goals for the team, giving them an early lead with a goal in the 7th minute and securing the victory with his second goal in the 64th minute.

With this win, Ivory Coast accumulated a total of 6 points from two wins and one loss in three matches. Despite having the same 6 points, they advanced to the next round as the group runners-up due to goal difference.