Ivory Coast Secure Historic Round of 32 Spot with Pepe Brace
Ivory Coast's star striker Nicolas Pepe delivered a brilliant performance, scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory over Curacao on Thursday in Philadelphia. The win secured the Elephants' first-ever qualification to the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Pepe, who now has two goals in the tournament, expressed his joy after the match. "I know I have got what it takes. This is the reward for all my hard work, and I hope it will continue in the upcoming matches too," he said, according to FIFA.
Pepe Becomes Second Ivorian to Score Brace at World Cup
With his two goals, Pepe etched his name in Ivory Coast's football history. He became only the second player from his country to score a brace in a World Cup match, following Aruna Dindane, who achieved the feat in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
The 29-year-old forward credited his teammates for their crucial assists. "My brace was down to the team as well. For the first goal, I just had to tap the ball in after some brilliant work from Yan [Diomande]; for the second, Ibra [Sangare] played a superb ball, and all I had to do was stay focused and score. I would like to dedicate this trophy to the lads," Pepe added.
Coach Fae Hails Pepe as World-Class Player
Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae praised Pepe's performance, calling him a "world-class player." "He is one of the players who needs to help us win matches in these competitions. He has the ability and the experience to do so. Today, he scored two brilliant goals. It is good for the team, and it is good for him too," Fae said.
The victory over Curacao was a must-win for Ivory Coast, and the team delivered under pressure. Pepe's clinical finishing in the first half set the tone, with his first goal coming from a tap-in after Yan Diomande's run, and his second from a precise pass by Ibra Sangare that he slotted home calmly.
Ivory Coast to Face Round of 32 Test in Arlington
Ivory Coast will now prepare for their Round of 32 match, scheduled for June 30 in Arlington, Texas. The team will face an as-yet-undetermined opponent, but Pepe's form and the team's growing confidence will be key assets.
The Elephants' journey in the 2026 World Cup has already been historic, and with Pepe leading the attack, they will aim to advance further. The match in Arlington promises to be a thrilling encounter as Ivory Coast seeks to continue its remarkable run.
