Costa de Marfil surprises France with 2-1 friendly victory ahead of World Cup

In a stunning upset, Costa de Marfil handed France their first defeat in nine matches with a dramatic 2-1 victory in a friendly game in Nantes.

The match marked a significant moment for Costa de Marfil, who had never before beaten the French national team. The West African nation secured the unprecedented win thanks to a stellar performance from Guéla Doué, who plays for Strasbourg in France's Ligue 1. Doué contributed a goal and an assist, playing a pivotal role in his team's historic triumph.

France, considered one of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup, initially took the lead just before halftime through Rayan Cherki. However, after making multiple substitutions at the break, including taking off star player Kylian Mbappé, the French team's momentum faltered.

Guéla Doué equalized for Costa de Marfil in the 53rd minute after a well-placed pass from Nicolas Pepe. The winning goal came in the 84th minute from Manchester United forward Amad Diallo, who converted a cross from Guéla Doué, sealing the surprising victory and leaving the French squad in evident disarray.

This friendly was Costa de Marfil's sole pre-World Cup fixture, and they will now focus on their Group E opener against Ecuador on June 14. France, meanwhile, will have another farewell match against Northern Ireland before heading to North America for the tournament.