Ivory Coast reaches World Cup knockout stage for first time

Ivory Coast qualified for the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in the country's history. The team, known as Les Elephants, finished its group stage matches in Philadelphia and will next play the second-place team from the France-Norway group in Dallas.

Midfielder Christ Inao Oulai said the achievement carries pride for the squad. "Yeah, there's a lot of pride [in qualifying for the round of 32]. We're really proud to have managed to do this," Oulai said. He added that the group is united and that the players succeeded where earlier teams had not.

Group stage results and individual milestones The team recorded its first win against a South American opponent during the tournament. Forward Nicolas Pepe tied the Ivory Coast record for most World Cup goals, matching the totals of Didier Drogba, Gervinho, and Wilfried Bony.

Nineteen-year-old Yan Diomande became the youngest Ivory Coast player to record a World Cup assist. Manager Emerse Fae used 22 of the 26 players on the roster, with 13 logging at least 90 minutes. Forward Evann Guessand noted the team's comfort in Philadelphia, where local support was visible before and after matches.

Preparation for the round of 32 Pepe said the squad worked on converting scoring chances after earlier matches. "We learn from our mistakes," he said. " Diomande created 10 chances in the group stage. Pepe described him as a player who makes a real impact and said the team will need to keep him focused during the knockout rounds.

The second-place team from the France-Norway group awaits Ivory Coast in Dallas.