By Angu Lesley
Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon
A clinical brace from Nicolas Pépé guided Côte d’Ivoire to a 2-0 victory over Curaçao in their final Group E match, securing a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32.
The Elephants made the perfect start, taking the lead after just seven minutes. Yan Diomande capitalised on a defensive mistake before teeing up Pépé, who calmly slotted home to put Côte d’Ivoire ahead.
Curaçao responded positively and enjoyed spells of possession, with Tahith Chong and Juninho Bacuna threatening, but they were unable to find a way past Yahia Fofana as the Ivorians carried their one-goal advantage into the break.
The African side doubled their lead in the 64th minute when Ibrahim Sangaré split the Curaçao defence with a perfectly weighted through ball for Pépé, who kept his composure to finish past Eloy Room for his second goal of the afternoon.
Emerse Faé’s men expertly managed the remainder of the contest, limiting Curaçao’s attacking opportunities while creating chances to extend their advantage. The final whistle confirmed a deserved 2-0 victory and a historic qualification for the knockout rounds.
The result sees Côte d’Ivoire finish second in Group E with six points, behind Ecuador, and advance to the Round of 32, while Curaçao’s memorable maiden FIFA World Cup campaign comes to an end despite a spirited showing throughout the tournament.
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