World Cup matchup highlights cultural ties between Ivory Coast and Curacao in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- As World Cup excitement builds in Philadelphia, the spotlight is not only on the upcoming match between Ivory Coast and Curacao, but also on the cultural connections each country has in the region.

For former Temple University pitcher Arshwin Asjes, baseball has been central to his journey from Curacao to the United States.

"Baseball is a very important part of my life," he said. Asjes, a Curacao native, has played professionally and internationally. "I played in an independent league, professional, then I played for the Netherlands national team for seven years."

Curacao's strong baseball tradition is well known. The small Caribbean island has produced more Major League Baseball players per capita than any other country, but soccer is now gaining momentum there, as Curacao has reached the World Cup for the first time.

"For us, it's one word we've been saying over the past week: euphoric," said Muryad de Bruin, managing director of the Curacao Tourist Board, describing the excitement surrounding the team's appearance.

Curacao will face Ivory Coast, whose team has drawn large crowds since arriving in the Delaware Valley. The region is also home to a strong Ivorian community, with organizations like Ivorians of the Delaware Valley helping people stay connected.

"It is very important to me that we, as Africans, specifically Ivorians, we get together to help each other," said Ibrahima Bamba, the group's president.

The countries' cultural identities extend beyond sports. Ivory Coast is the world's largest cocoa producer, contributing to its reputation for chocolate, and is also known for fresh cuisine.

"We eat a lot of rice and plantain. With the plantain, we make fufu," Bamba said.

Curacao's cuisine reflects its Caribbean roots.

"I like the fresh fish, the corn meal, it's called funche," Asjes said.

Language further highlights cultural diversity. French is the official language of Ivory Coast, while in Curacao, the most widely spoken language is Papiamentu.

"Popumento is a mix of Creole, Spanish, Portuguese," Asjes said.

Asjes has friends and family coming to town for the game. He said he is looking forward to seeing support for his home country in Philadelphia, adding, "I think this is the team that's going to surprise the world!"

Ivory Coast fans are equally confident.

"No country is gonna do better than us! Our people gonna get that cup!" said Siahou Soumahoro, an Ivorian native.

Fans from both countries are planning celebrations and watch parties ahead of the match, set for 4 p.m. Thursday in Philadelphia, as each side hopes for a World Cup victory.