Preview: Curaçao vs Ivory Coast prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026

Curaçao can possibly secure a second-place finish with a win

Philadelphia Stadium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, will host an enthralling encounter between Curaçao and the Ivory Coast in the fifth game of Group E of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Germany have already qualified for the Round of 32 as table toppers, but the remaining teams still have a shot at qualification for the next round.

Curaçao were annihilated by Die Nationalelf in their opening game of the tournament. They lost 7-1, and no one gave them a chance to bounce back in the game. However, they fought tooth and nail to secure a 0-0 draw against Ecuador, who finished only behind Argentina during the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. They are still alive in this competition and can finish in the second place if they manage to win in the last round.

Ivory Coast, on the other hand, had a dream start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a 1-0 win over Ecuador. They locked horns against Germany in their second game and were even leading during halftime. However, Julian Nagelesmann’s side showed their might and completed the comeback against the Ivory Coast. A draw or a win against Curaçao will be enough for them to seal a top-two finish in their group.

Kick-off:

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Stadium: Philadelphia Stadium
• Date: Thursday, 25 June
• Kick-off Time: 08:00 PM (GMT) I 03:00 PM (EST) | 26/06/2026 – 01:30 AM (IST)
• Referee: Not decided
• VAR: In use

Form:

Curaçao (in all competitions): D-L-W-L-L

Ivory Coast (in all competitions): L-W-W-W-W

Players to watch out for:

Tahith Chong (Curaçao)

Tahith Chong plays his club football for Sheffield United and had a fantastic 2025/26 season in the EFL Championship. He is a versatile attacking midfielder who likes to operate in advanced areas but can also drop deep to control the tempo of the game if required. He can also drift wide and operate as a winger.

Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast)

Ivory Coast’s number eight and their captain, Franck Kessié, is arguably their most important player. He is a talented central midfielder who has played for clubs like FC Barcelona, Atalanta, and AC Milan throughout his career. He has a perfect blend of strong physicality and technical skill. Kessie scored against Germany in his last game as well.

Match Facts:

• This will be the first-ever competitive encounter between Curaçao and the Ivory Coast.
• Curaçao played a 0-0 draw against Ecuador in their last game.
• Ivory Coast lost 2-1 against Germany in their last game.

Curaçao vs Ivory Coast: Betting tips and odds

• Tip 1: Ivory Coast to win – 1.21 by Stake
• Tip 2: Both teams to score – Yes – 1.52 by Dafabet
• Tip 3: Expected Goals – Over 2.5 – 1.89 by 1XBET

Injury and Team news:

Curaçao have their entire squad available for selection.

Ivory Coast, on the other hand, will be without Wilfried Singo as he was taken off after pulling his hamstring against Germany.

Head-to-Head:

This will be the first-ever competitive encounter between Curaçao and the Ivory Coast.

Predicted Lineups:

Curaçao (5-4-1)

Room (GK); Brenet, Gaari, Obispo, Floranus, Fonville; Chong, Comenencia, Leandro Bacuna, Bacuna; Locadia

Ivory Coast (3-4-2-1)

Fofana (GK); Singo, Kossounou, Agbadou, Konan; Sangaré; Diallo, Kessié, Oulaï, Diomande; Bonny

Match Prediction:

Ivory Coast are the favourites coming into this game. Along with having incredible players, they are a cohesive team. However, with everything on the line, Curaçao can step up and give them quite a challenge.

Prediction: Curaçao 1-2 Ivory Coast

Telecast details:

India: Unite8 Sports Channels, ZEE5

UK: BBC & ITV

USA: FOX Sports

Nigeria: DStv, GOtv

Full Broadcaster List here.

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