FIFA World Cup 2026: Cote d’Ivoire beat Curaçao 2-0 to reach last 32

Pepe’s somewhat unlikely brace in the Group E finale helped the Ivorians finish second with six points, while eliminating debutants Curacao from contention on Thursday afternoon.

Ivory Coast reaches World Cup knockout stage for the first time after Nicolas Pépé’s brace beats Curaçao 2-0, sparking huge celebrations in Abidjan.

Forward Pepe, who plays for Spanish side Villarreal, collected a pass from Ibrahim Sangare to double his tally in the 64th minute.

The Elephants finished second in their group and will face either France or Norway in the Round of 16 on June 30.