Match Overview
Curacao take on Ivory Coast in the final round of Group E fixtures at the 2026 World Cup. The tournament debutants are seeking to build on a historic 0-0 draw with Ecuador, while Ivory Coast are on the brink of advancing to the knockout stages.
Group Standings and Stakes
Curacao started their campaign with a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany but earned their first-ever World Cup point with a resilient goalless draw against Ecuador, thanks to a record-breaking performance by goalkeeper Eloy Room. Without a win, Curacao will be eliminated. Ivory Coast, meanwhile, suffered last-minute heartbreak against Germany in a 2-1 loss but had previously beaten Ecuador 1-0 with a 90th-minute goal from Amad Diallo. The Ivorians could advance even with a narrow defeat, but a victory would strengthen their position as one of the best third-placed teams.
Date, Kick-off Time, and Venue
The match is scheduled for Thursday, June 25, 2026, with a 9pm BST kick-off. It will be held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, USA.
Where to Watch Curacao vs Ivory Coast
UK viewers can watch the game live on ITV1, with coverage starting at 8.50pm BST. A live stream is available via the ITVX app or ITV website. Standard Sport will provide a live blog, and highlights will be available on FIFA's official YouTube channel, ITVX, and associated websites.
Team News
Curacao's goalkeeper Eloy Room set a World Cup record with 15 saves against Ecuador, the most by a goalkeeper in tournament history. Former Manchester United youngster Tahith Chong and the Bacuna brothers, Juninho and Leandro, are key players. Most of Curacao's squad are Dutch-born, reflecting colonial ties. The full Curacao squad includes Tyrick Bodak, Trevor Doornbusch, Eloy Room, Riechedly Bazoer, Joshua Brenet, Roshon Van Eijma, Sherel Floranus, Deveron Fonville, Jurien Gaari, Armando Obispo, Shurandy Sambo, Juninho Bacuna, Leandro Bacuna, Livano Comenencia, Kevin Felida, Ar'Jany Martha, Tyrese Noslin, Godfried Roemeratoe, Jeremy Antonisse, Tahith Chong, Kenji Gorré, Sontje Hansen, Gervane Kastaneer, Brandley Kuwas, Jurgen Locadia, and Jearl Margaritha.
Ivory Coast will rely on Liverpool-bound Yan Diomande and Manchester United's Amad Diallo to step up. Captain Frank Kessie, who scored against Germany, is crucial in midfield. The Ivory Coast squad includes Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Koné, Alban Lafont, Emmanuel Agbadou, Clément Akpa, Ousmane Diomande, Guela Doué, Ghislain Konan, Odilon Kossounou, Evan Ndicka, Wilfried Singo, Seko Fofana, Parfait Guiagon, Christ Inao Oulaï, Franck Kessié, Ibrahim Sangaré, Jean-Michaël Seri, Simon Adingra, Ange-Yoan Bonny, Amad Diallo, Oumar Diakité, Yan Diomande, Evann Guessand, Nicolas Pépé, Bazoumana Touré, and Elye Wahi.
Prediction
Curacao must go for a win to stay alive, while Ivory Coast can progress with a draw or even a narrow loss. A heavy Ivory Coast win, combined with a Germany loss to Ecuador, could see them top the group. However, complacency could be costly for Emerse Fae's side. Prediction: Ivory Coast to win 3-1.
Head-to-Head History
Curacao and Ivory Coast have never faced each other before.
Match Odds
Curacao to win: 17/1; Ivory Coast to win: 2/13; Draw: 15/2. Odds via UK betting sites and subject to change. Gambling can be addictive; always play responsibly. For help, visit BeGambleAware or Gamcare.
