Nicolas Pépé scored twice as Ivory Coast beat Curaçao 2-0 to become the third African nation to reach the World Cup knockout stage.
Philadelphia, United States (Running Africa) — Ivory Coast booked their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in history after Nicolas Pépé scored twice in a commanding 2-0 victory over Curaçao on Thursday.
The historic win secured second place in Group E with six points, behind Germany, sending the Elephants into the Round of 32 after falling short in each of their previous World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014.
Pépé gave Ivory Coast the perfect start in the seventh minute, finishing from close range after Yan Diomandé won possession high up the pitch and delivered a precise pass across goal. The veteran winger sealed the victory in the 65th minute with a stunning left-footed strike into the top corner.
The Elephants entered the match needing only a draw to advance after opening their campaign with a 1-0 win over Ecuador before narrowly losing 2-1 to Germany. Instead, Emerse Faé’s side produced one of their most composed performances of the tournament to secure a landmark result.
“This is a historic qualification and everyone should enjoy it,” Faé said after the match. “This team is growing together and showing great character.”
Ivory Coast become the third African nation to reach the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, joining Morocco and South Africa, as the continent continues to make a strong statement on football’s biggest stage. Several other African teams remain in contention for knockout qualification, raising hopes of a record continental showing at the tournament.
