Friendly match: Ivory Coast stuns France in Nantes

Africa Today at 17:28

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

04.06.26 FT Friendly International

France

1

:

Ivory Coast

2

In a friendly match as part of their World Cup preparations, Ivory Coast defeated France 2-1 in Nantes on June 4.

A historic victory and a powerful statement ahead of the 2026 World Cup. This evening, on the pitch of La Beaujoire in Nantes, Ivory Coast asserted their dominance in impressive fashion (2-1) against the mighty France, two-time world champions.

After Rayan Cherki opened the scoring just before halftime (45'), the Ivorians returned for the second half with fighting spirit. Youngster Gila Doué leveled the score in the 53rd minute, before star Amad Diallo sent the stands into a frenzy and delivered an unforgettable moment for the Elephants' fans with a dramatic winner in the 84th minute.

As they approach their fourth World Cup appearance, the Elephants are proving they are fully prepared for the big stage. The atmosphere is electric and confidence is sky high. Now, it's time for business: Ivory Coast will kick off their official World Cup campaign on June 14 against Ecuador.

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Ivory Coast

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