Cote d’Ivoire stun France just a week removed from the World Cup

With just a week until the start of the 2026 World Cup, France may have some serious questions heading into the tournament.

The French would strike early first with Rayan Cherki managing to sneak a shot past the glove of Yahia Fofana.

But Cote d’Ivoire would equalize early in the second half, with their first goal coming courtesy of Guela Doué.

Doué had a clear one-on-one with French goalkeeper Mike Maignan after a sensational through ball from Nicolas Pépé. Doué took full advantage of the opportunity slotting the strike into the back of the net in the 53rd minute to knot the game one a piece.

However, Cote d’Ivoire would pull out some late game heroics. In the 83rd minute, Doué swing a pass into the box, and Amad Diallo buried a first touch strike to jump Cote d’Ivoire ahead 2-1.

And that’s where the score would stand, Cote d’Ivoire, who will play in the 2026 World Cup, has just reminded everyone that no game is a gimmie.

As for the French, while the loss was stunning, luckily for them this was just a friendly match. But it’s a stark reminder to take nothing for granted.

Follow Adrian Murillo Silva on Instagram @adrianms_official