By defeating Curaçao 2-0 on June 25 in Philadelphia, Ivory Coast advanced past the first round of a World Cup for the first time in its history. The Elephants will face either France or Norway in the round of 32. In the same group, Ecuador secured their place in the next round with a surprising 2-1 victory over Germany.

A blistering start by Nicolas Pépé

Emerse Faé's men knew they had a date with destiny, and they didn't disappoint at the start of the match. In the 6th minute, Nicolas Pépé freed his team by opening the scoring, magnificently converting a cutback cross from the ever-present Yan Diomandé.

However, Curaçao had looked dangerous as early as the 2nd minute with a powerful shot from Tahith Chong, which was only just parried by Ivorian goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. The Elephants then missed an opportunity to extend their lead in the 22nd minute when defender Gaari cleared Amad Diallo's effort off the line.

Tactical management in the Philadelphia heat

Under a blazing sun (29°C) and heavy humidity, the Ivorians experienced a physical dip in form as the first half progressed. Facing an enterprising Curaçao team—led by a lively Chong—coach Emerse Faé opted to solidify his midfield immediately after the break. Striker Amad Diallo was thus replaced by Christ Inao Oulaï .

This caution proved to be worthwhile, especially since in the other match of the group, Ecuador caused an upset by dominating Germany (2-1) thanks to a late goal from Gonzalo Plata (77th), thus securing a place as one of the best third-placed teams.

The double deliverance

Relief finally came, once again, from the feet of Nicolas Pépé . In the 64th minute, perfectly set up in space by Ibrahim Sangaré, the Villarreal striker cleaned the top right corner of goalkeeper Eloy Room's net with a clinical strike (2-0).

The historical fact: After the failures of 2006, 2010 and 2014 in the first round, the fourth attempt is the charm for Ivory Coast.

On to the round of 32

Buoyed by this historic victory, the Elephants are heading to the knockout stage. They will play their round of 32 match in Dallas on Tuesday, June 30th at 5 PM (UTC) . Their opponent will be the runner-up from Group I: a potentially blockbuster clash against either France or Norway .