Pepe Powers Ivory Coast to Knockout Berth

Nicolas Pepe exploded onto the World Cup stage with a stunning two-goal performance, propelling Côte d’Ivoire into the knockout rounds for the first time in history with a commanding win over debutants Curaçao. Pepe’s early strike, sparked by a sublime pass from Yan Diomande, set the tempo, while his second goal—a clinical finish after a quick one-two with Ibrahim Sangare—sealed the deal. Curaçao’s Tahith Chong and captain Bacuna came close but couldn’t break through. The victory secures Côte d’Ivoire as Group E runners-up, setting them up for a June 30th showdown in Dallas against Group I’s second-place team—a moment that cements their grit and electrifies the Elephants’ global journey. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/48623bb17a627a3c