Nicolas Pépé Fires Ivory Coast into Historic World Cup Knockout Stage

Posted : 26 June 2026

Nicolas Pépé produced a match-winning performance as Ivory Coast defeated Curaçao 2-0 to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in the nation's history. The experienced forward struck in each half to guide the Elephants to second place in Group E and end Curaçao's tournament campaign.

Pépé opened the scoring in the seventh minute before adding his second just after the hour mark to ensure Ivory Coast finished behind group winners Germany. The victory sends the West African side into the last 32, where they will face either France or Norway in Dallas on Tuesday.

Goalkeeper Yahya Fofana enjoyed a relatively comfortable evening, dealing confidently with the few efforts Curaçao managed to keep on target. Although the Caribbean side created several opportunities, poor finishing meant the Ivorian defence was rarely placed under sustained pressure.

The back line delivered another composed display. Guéla Doué impressed with energetic runs down the right flank, while Ousmane Diomandé continued to strengthen his growing reputation with another assured defensive performance. Odilon Kossounou was solid without reaching the same level as his defensive partners, while Christopher Operi contributed positively in attack despite facing difficult moments in one-on-one situations.

Ivory Coast's midfield controlled much of the contest. Franck Kessié remained influential throughout, arriving dangerously in attacking areas and coming close to adding to the goal he scored against Germany. Ibrahim Sangaré anchored the midfield effectively and provided the perfectly weighted pass that created Pépé's second goal, underlining his importance at both ends of the pitch.

Yan Diomandé also stood out with an intelligent display, creating the opening goal through quick thinking and imaginative play. In contrast, Amad Diallo struggled to make a significant impact and was substituted at halftime after the coaching staff sought greater control of second-ball situations. Ange-Yoan Bonny endured a quiet outing in attack before making way midway through the second half.

Pépé was unquestionably the star of the evening. His two clinical finishes capped an impressive display and marked a remarkable turnaround after being omitted from Ivory Coast's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year. The forward seized his opportunity on the World Cup stage with a performance that could prove pivotal in his international resurgence.

The substitutes also made valuable contributions. Christ Inao Oulai strengthened the midfield after the break, while Ousmane Diakité brought fresh energy in attack. Elye Wahi had limited influence after coming on but did create one scoring opportunity, and Bazouma Touré came closest to adding a third goal during the closing stages. Jean Michael Seri also featured late in the match but played too briefly to make a significant impact.

With confidence growing and a place in the knockout rounds secured, Ivory Coast now turn their attention to a historic last-32 encounter as they look to continue their impressive World Cup journey.

Nicolas Pépé Fires Ivory Coast into Historic World Cup Knockout Stage

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