France loses to Ivory Coast and the only happy Frenchman was the stretcher bearer
- France lost 2-1 against Ivory Coast in their final friendly before the World Cup, with an African comeback after Cherki opened the scoring
- Despite the defeat, France came from 8 wins and a draw, making this their first loss in 10 matches
- Ivory Coast shows they can compete with the big powers and arrive confident at the World Cup in Group E with Germany, Ecuador and Curaçao
The favourites bleed too. France, tipped for everything in this World Cup, lost 2-1 in Nantes against Ivory Coast in their penultimate warm-up. And it played out like a script: a stunning Cherki goal before half-time, an African comeback with Guéla Doué and Amad Diallo, and a finish with Les Bleus watching the clock in their own stadium.
The surreal moment came courtesy of Franck Kessié, who in an accidental collision left the referee sprawled on the grass needing medical attention. He got a yellow card—presumably for a perfectly executed tackle in the wrong sport.
Ivory Coast, meanwhile, arrives at the World Cup rubbing their hands together. Emerse Faé's Elephants are in Group E with Germany, Ecuador and Curaçao, and this victory confirms they can compete with the big boys. France's first defeat in 10 games. The last one before the World Cup. Keep your eyes peeled.
Frequently asked questions
How did the France vs Ivory Coast match end?
Ivory Coast came from behind and won 2-1 against France in Nantes on 4 June 2026. Cherki scored for the French, and Guéla Doué and Amad Diallo turned it around for the Ivorians.
Who beat France before the 2026 World Cup?
Ivory Coast defeated France 2-1 in a friendly in Nantes 6 days before the World Cup started, marking the French team's first loss in their last 10 matches.
Which group is France in at the 2026 World Cup?
France are in Group I of the 2026 World Cup, alongside Senegal, Iraq and Norway.
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