2026 FIFA World Cup: Ivory Coast defeats France in Pre-World Cup Friendly

Ivory Coast made history on Thursday by becoming the fifth African nation to defeat France after securing a 2-1 victory in an international friendly at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.

The result served as a major confidence boost for the Elephants ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and added another memorable chapter to African football’s record against the 2018 World Champions.

France took the lead shortly before halftime through Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki, who put the hosts ahead in the 45th minute.

However, Ivory Coast responded strongly after the break. Gilles Doue equalised in the 53rd minute before Manchester United Amad Diallo completed the comeback with the winning goal in the 84th minute.

The Elephant put up an impressive performance from the and highlighted their readiness ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ivory Coast are now the fifth African country to record a victory over France at senior international level.

The historic list includes: Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia and Ivory Coast.

Tunisia remains the only Arab country to have beaten France.

France will now shift its attention to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they are set to face Senegal as their next opponent in Group I opener.

The French side have been drawn alongside Senegal, Norway and Iraq, setting up an intriguing clash against the African champions as they begin their quest for World Cup glory.

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast will head into the tournament full of confidence after their historic victory, hoping to carry that momentum onto football’s biggest stage.

The Elephant remains undefeated in their campaign during the World Cup qualifiers, finishing the campaign with 26 points and 25 goals.