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France Stunned by Ivory Coast in Shock World Cup Warm-Up Defeat
By Aurax Desk | June 5, 2026 | 2 min read
World Cup contenders France suffered a surprising 2-1 home defeat to Ivory Coast in Nantes as Amad Diallo's late winner completed a dramatic comeback for the African champions just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins.
Ivory Coast players celebrate after defeating France 2-1 in a World Cup warm-up match in Nantes.
France appeared on course for victory after rising star Rayan Cherki gave Les Bleus the lead before halftime, but Ivory Coast responded impressively after the break. Guela Doué equalized in the 53rd minute before Manchester United winger Amad Diallo struck the decisive goal in the 84th minute to seal a memorable 2-1 victory for the visitors. The result marked one of the biggest upsets of the World Cup preparation schedule and highlighted the growing confidence of an Ivory Coast side returning to the tournament for the first time since 2014.
France's Malo Gusto and Ivory Coast player Christ Inao Oulai battle for possession during an international friendly in Nantes, with the African champions securing a surprise 2-1 victory ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match was also briefly halted during the first half after referee Sebastian Gishamer required medical treatment following an accidental collision with Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessié. Despite entering the contest as one of the favorites for the World Cup, France struggled to regain control after conceding the equalizer. For Ivory Coast, the victory provides a major boost ahead of a tournament in which coach Emerse Faé has urged his players to dream big, while France will look to quickly regroup before beginning its World Cup campaign.
Sources: ESPN, FOX Sports and France 24.
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