Curaçao pulled off one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in their Group C match on Friday. The Caribbean side scored two goals in the final 10 minutes to overturn a 1-0 deficit and secure their first ever World Cup win.
First Half: Ivory Coast Dominates
Ivory Coast controlled possession in the first half, with Nicolas Pépé testing Curaçao's goalkeeper early. The Elephants took the lead in the 34th minute when Sébastien Haller headed in a cross from Serge Aurier. Curaçao struggled to create chances, managing only one shot on target in the opening 45 minutes.
Second Half: Curaçao's Resilience
Curaçao came out stronger after the break, pressing higher and forcing errors. In the 81st minute, substitute Leandro Bacuna equalized with a powerful strike from outside the box that beat Ivory Coast goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangaré. Just four minutes later, Curaçao took the lead when Jarchinio Antonia volleyed home a cross from Gianluca Maria.
Ivory Coast pushed for an equalizer but were denied by Curaçao's defense and a crucial save from goalkeeper Eloy Room in stoppage time. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among Curaçao players and fans.
Historic Victory for Curaçao
This was only Curaçao's second World Cup appearance, and their first win. The victory puts them level on points with Ivory Coast in Group C, keeping their hopes of advancing alive. According to FIFA, Curaçao's win is considered the biggest upset of the tournament so far, with the team ranked 81 places below Ivory Coast in the world rankings.
Ivory Coast coach Jean-Louis Gasset said: "We had control of the game but lost concentration in the final minutes. Curaçao took their chances and deserved the win." Curaçao coach Guus Hiddink praised his team's spirit: "This is a dream come true. The players showed incredible belief and fought until the end."
