June 26, 2026
World
World
PARIS, June 26 — Europe’s ongoing heatwave has intensified, with record-breaking temperatures straining health systems, disrupting daily life and prompting a series of emergency measures across the continent.
PHILADELPHIA, June 26 — Ivory Coast forward Nicolas Pepe says the Elephants are determined to push further at the World Cup after defeating Curacao 2-0 today to secure a historic place in the knockout rounds for the first time.
“We are delighted and proud to be the first Ivory Coast team to reach the knockout rounds. Everyone has worked hard for this and we have got our reward,” said Villarreal’s Pepe, who scored both goals in Philadelphia, netting once in each half.
“We are setting no limits. We have huge potential. Now we are into the knockout rounds so we will see what happens.”
Ivory Coast finished second in Group E with six points, behind group winners Germany on head-to-head record. They opened with a 1-0 win over Ecuador before falling 2-1 to Germany.
The result marks a breakthrough for an Ivorian side that previously never progressed beyond the group stage, despite featuring stars such as Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure.
Before this tournament, Ivory Coast had appeared in three World Cups between 2006 and 2014 without reaching the knockout phase.
They will now travel to Dallas for a last-32 clash next Tuesday against the runner-up in Group I, which will be either France or Norway.
“We are very happy. We will celebrate this and then start preparing for what comes next,” said French-born coach Emerse Fae.
“Not everything was perfect, but we have qualified and the win will boost morale.” — AFP
