Ivory Coast advances to World Cup round of 16 for the first time after defeating Curaçao
via SeneNews2 min read
Ivory Coast has qualified for the World Cup round of 16 for the first time in four attempts, securing a 2-0 victory over Curaçao in Philadelphia. With six points, the Ivorians finished second in Group E behind Germany and will face the second-placed team from Group I, either France or Norway, on June 30 in Dallas. In their previous World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014, they did not progress past the group stage. Coach Émerse Faé expressed satisfaction, stating, "We are happy, we are proud, now we look even further. We will prepare well for the round of 16." He added that while it wasn't their best match, the win, clean sheet, and qualification were most important. Nicolas Pépé, who scored both goals, emphasized a match-by-match approach moving forward. Curaçao, despite the loss, can be pleased with their first campaign, having earned one point against Ecuador. For this final group match, held in a nearly full stadium with 68,324 attendees, Ivorian coach Emerse Faé started Christopher Operi, Ousmane Diomande, and Ange-Yoan Bonny. Curaçao's coach, Dick Advocaat, maintained the same starting lineup from their 0-0 draw against Ecuador. The Elephants dominated early, with Nicolas Pépé opening the scoring in the 7th minute. Pépé, named "man of the match," scored his second goal after the hour mark. Curaçao attempted to create chances through players like Jurien Gaari, Tahith Chong, and the Bacuna brothers, but were ultimately unsuccessful, often making poor passing choices
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