France, June 26 -- The 31-year-old slotted in the opening goal after seven minutes of the game at the Philadelphia Stadium.

He added the second mid way through the second half to effectively end Curacao's hopes of advancing to the knockout stages on their first appearance at the World Cup.

"We are delighted and proud to be the first Ivorian team to reach the knockout rounds," said Pepe who plays his club football at Villareal in Spain. 'Everyone has worked hard'

"Everyone has worked hard for this and we have got our reward. We are setting no limits. We have huge potential. Now we are into the knockout rounds so we will see what happens."

Qualification for the second phase will add lustrre to the reputation of head coach Emerse Fae.

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