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Côte d’Ivoire head coach Emerse Faé says his team deserved a place in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Completesports.com reports.
The Elephants confirmed their place in the Round of 32 following a 2-0 victory over Curaçao at the Philadelphia Stadium on Thursday night.
Pepe Stars For Elephants
Former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe scored both goals for the former African champions.
Pepe scored the game’s curtain raiser in the sixth minute, tapping home from close range after Yan Diomande sent a low cut back into the penalty area.
The goal was Côte d’Ivoire’s fastest ever at the World Cup.
Read Also:World Cup 2026: Pepe Brace Vs Curacao Sends Côte d’Ivoire Into knockout Rounds For The First Time
Pepe doubled the Elephants’ lead in the second half, calmly slotting home with his left foot after a neat one-two with Nottingham Forest midfielder Ibrahim Sangare left him free in the box against Eloy Room.
Faé Thumbs Up Côte d’Ivoire’s Victory
Faé hailed his team’s achievement and expressed his pride in their performance.
“Pride is the first word that comes to mind. We knew we could do it, and we also knew it was going to be difficult. We did it. On top of that, we finished second,” Faé was quoted by FIFA.com.
“We’re happy and proud, but we’re looking even further ahead. We’re going to rest up well for our next match. Ivory Coast deserves this, can enjoy it, and can celebrate tonight. They can keep cheering us on so we can go as far as possible.”
Côte d’Ivoire qualify as Group E runners-up and will face the runners-up from Group I in Dallas on 30 June.
By Adeboye Amosu
