France began their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a defeat. On Thursday evening in Nantes, Les Bleus lost to Ivory Coast 2-1, despite having opened the scoring in the first half.
Cherki goes off the rails, Ivorians respond
Rayan Cherki gave France the lead just before halftime, at the end of a first half in which Les Bleus had the clearest chances. Yahia Fofana notably had to make saves against Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, and Cherki.
Gifted revives Ivory Coast
After the break, Ivory Coast equalized thanks to Guéla Doué. The Ivorian defender then proved decisive a second time, setting up Amad Diallo for the winning goal late in the game.
Diallo scores in the 84th minute
Just when the match seemed destined for a draw, Amad Diallo scored six minutes from time from a cross by Guéla Doué. This goal gave Ivory Coast a prestigious victory and their first ever against France.
Deschamps rotates the squad, Les Bleus fall behind
Didier Deschamps made numerous changes in the second half. Les Bleus, who were on a nine-match unbeaten run, lost control after the break and were punished by a more efficient Ivory Coast side.
Final test before entering the competition
France will play another warm-up match against Northern Ireland on Monday in Lille, before their first World Cup match against Senegal on June 16 in New York. Ivory Coast will begin their tournament on June 15 against Ecuador.
