France 1-2 Ivory Coast — Historic First-Ever Ivory Coast Win Over France in Final Pre-Tournament Friendly

Ivory Coast defeated France 1-2 in an international friendly at Stade de la Beaujoire – Louis Fonteneau in Nantes on June 4, 2026 — a historic result marking the first time in history that Côte d'Ivoire have beaten France at full international level. Rayan Cherki gave France the lead in the 16th minute with a composed finish on his World Cup warm-up debut. Ivory Coast equalized in the 58th minute through Guela Doue, who then turned provider for Amad Diallo's winning goal to seal the comeback. The result represents a significant psychological blow for Didier Deschamps' side — in what Deschamps himself has confirmed will be his final tournament as France head coach after a tenure beginning in 2012 — as they head toward their World Cup Group I opener vs Iraq (June 15). Ivory Coast are in Group E alongside Germany (their June 20 opponent), Ecuador, and Curaçao. The victory against France will inject confidence into Ivory Coast ahead of their opening match. For France, the defeat underscores concerns about defensive vulnerabilities despite possessing one of the tournament's deepest attacking rosters led by Kylian Mbappé. Les Bleus still carry two-time World Cup pedigree and are considered among the pre-tournament favourites. Deschamps' side now has a week to regroup before opening Group I vs Iraq in Los Angeles. 7 days to World Cup kickoff.