World Cup: Diomande helps Côte d'Ivoire reach knockout stages

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·25 June 2026

World Cup: Diomande helps Côte d'Ivoire reach knockout stages

Nicolas Pépé’s goals either side of half-time against Curaçao guided Côte d'Ivoire to their first-ever qualification to the World Cup knockout stages. RB Leipzig’s sensation Yan Diomande provided the assist for the all-important first goal in the seventh minute.

Hoffenheim’s winger Bazoumana Touré and Elye Wahi, who spent the second half of the season at Nice on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, played the last quarter of the game for the Elephants.

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After Morocco and South Africa’s progression on Wednesday, Africa added another Round of 32 representative as Côte d'Ivoire also finished second in their group. Ecuador’s tournament will also continue after their comeback victory over group winners Germany, while Curaçao’s first-ever appearance ended with a single point and goal.