Curaçao: Debut on the World Stage

Curaçao make their World Cup debut — a historic moment for the Caribbean island nation. Their CONCACAF success relied on compact defending and set-piece effectiveness. Leandro Bacuna (Leeuwarden) is their most technical player and leads from midfield.

Jürgen Locadia brings top-level experience from his time in the Premier League. Eloy Room (Columbus Crew) in goal is a genuine quality keeper who kept multiple clean sheets in CONCACAF qualifying. Curaçao will aim for organization and discipline against Group E giants.

Ivory Coast: AFCON Champions Bring African Swagger

Ivory Coast arrive as reigning AFCON champions, defeating Nigeria 2-1 in the final on home soil. Sébastien Haller leads the attack — his hold-up play and heading ability make him a unique threat. Amad Diallo (Manchester United) on the right wing is one of the most exciting 22-year-olds in the tournament.

Franck Kessie provides the physical and technical balance in central midfield — 4 qualifying goals from box-to-box runs. Emerse Faé's 4-3-3 builds possession through wing play and uses Haller as the reference point. Simon on the left and Diallo on the right provide width and pace — defenders rarely get comfortable.

Head-to-Head

No previous senior meetings. First competitive match between the nations.

Place These Bets at DraftKings →