Ivory Coast reached the World Cup knockout phase for the first time after three previous group-stage exits as Nicolas Pepe scored twice in a 2-0 win over Curacao to secure second place in Group E on Thursday.
Pepe delivered when Ivory Coast needed him. The forward had failed to score in five World Cup qualifying appearances and missed Emerse Fae’s recent Africa Cup of Nations squad, but he struck twice to send the Ivorians into the last 32.
Ivory Coast controlled long periods through direct attacks and quick movement in wide areas. Nineteen-year-old Yan Diomande caused Curacao problems throughout the match and drove much of their attacking play.
The opening goal arrived after Curacao made a costly mistake while trying to build from the back. Diomande reacted first, won the loose ball and spotted Pepe making his run towards the near post. He cut the ball back from the byline and Pepe drilled a first-time finish through Eloy Room from close range.
Curacao stayed in the match and still found moments of danger. Leandro Bacuna burst through three defenders before half-time but dragged his shot wide of the near post. After the break, Sherel Floranus found space but sent his effort over the bar.
Ivory Coast slowed the tempo in difficult conditions as temperatures sat in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, but they still found a second goal through a sharper move. Ibrahim Sangare split the defence with a precise through ball and Pepe timed his run perfectly before curling his finish inside the left post.
Amad Diallo, who scored Ivory Coast’s first goal of the tournament, came off at half-time, though the reason remained unclear.
Curacao leave the tournament as the eighth side eliminated. The Caribbean nation exceeded many expectations after becoming the smallest country to qualify for the World Cup finals, but their campaign ends before the knockout stage.
Ivory Coast will now face the second-placed side from Group I, either France or Norway, in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday.
