2026 World Cup Group E: Curacao vs Ivory Coast Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 25)

• When: Wednesday, June 25, 2026. 4:00 PM ET
• Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
• How to Watch: FS1

The 2026 World Cup starts the third round of matches with the fifth matchup in Group E getting underway in Philadelphia as Curacao takes on Ivory Coast. These two squads will likely be in direct competition for a qualifying spot in the group, meaning that there will be pressure on both nations on MD3.

ALSO SEE: World Cup 2026: Our Experts Share Their World Cup Picks

Curacao Stats & Team News

Curacao remains alive in the race for a spot in the Round of 32, pulling off a historic 0-0 draw against Ecuador after losing 7-1 to Germany. Eloy Room was the hero of the night for his team, making 15 saves to get Curacao their first-ever World Cup point.

They will need a win to punch their ticket to the next round, as a draw may not be enough to do the trick. It will require Curacao to be assertive on the attack, especially on counters. Keep an eye on their approach against Ivory Coast.

Likely Lineup:

(5-4-1) Room (GK); Gaari, Obispo, Floranus, Brenet, Fonville; Chong, Comenencia, Bacuna, Bacuna; Locadia

Ivory Coast Stats & Team News

Ivory Coast missed a big chance to stun Germany, giving up two goals in the second half to lose in a 2-1 heartbreaker. While a draw will secure their place in the knockouts, a win would gift them important momentum in the next round.

Amad Diallo and Yan Diomande will be aggressive on the attack to put the Curacao defense on its heels. Ivory Coast will be desperate to make up for its collapse against Germany, paving the way for their offense to go full throttle.

Likely Lineup:

(4-3-3) Fofana (GK) Doué, Kossounou, Agbadou, Konan; Kessié, Sangaré, Oulaï; Diallo, Bonny, Diomande.

Head-to-Head Stats

• This is the first all-time meeting between Curacao and Ivory Coast.
• This marks the first competitive meeting between the nations.

Curacao vs. Ivory Coast World Cup Picks

Curacao will be the massive underdog once again, needing its defense to be at its best once again against Ivory Coast. The African side needs goals to give themselves a cushion to finish second behind Germany. This game will be entertaining for both teams, especially with Curacao playing with house money. It would be safe to believe that Ivory Coast takes this one by a 2-1 score.