France suffered a surprise 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast in their opening preparation match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the friendly taking place at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.

The match marked one of the final home appearances for head coach Didier Deschamps before his side begins its World Cup campaign. Fielding a lineup close to full strength, Les Bleus controlled possession and dictated the tempo throughout much of the first half.

The breakthrough arrived just before the interval when highly rated midfielder Rayan Cherki found the net with a composed finish in the 45th minute, giving the hosts a deserved lead.

However, the contest shifted dramatically after the break. A series of substitutions disrupted France's rhythm, allowing Ivory Coast to grow into the game and seize control of proceedings.

The visitors levelled in the 53rd minute when Guela Doué converted from close range following an excellent assist from Nicolas Pépé. With momentum firmly on their side, the African champions continued to threaten and were rewarded six minutes from time.

In the 84th minute, Amad Diallo met a precise cross from the flank and calmly finished to complete the comeback, securing an impressive victory for Ivory Coast.

France Starting XI

Mike Maignan — Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernández, Lucas Digne — N'Golo Kanté, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga — Rayan Cherki — Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé.

Second-half substitutes: Benjamin Pavard, Adrien Rabiot, Ousmane Dembélé, Marcus Thuram, Randal Kolo Muani.

Team news: Defender William Saliba missed the match due to injury.

Ivory Coast Starting XI

Yahia Fofana — Wilfried Singo, Evan Ndicka, Odilon Kossounou, Guela Doué — Franck Kessié, Seko Fofana, Ibrahim Sangaré — Nicolas Pépé, Sébastien Haller, Amad Diallo.

Second-half substitutes: Oumar Diakité, Jérémie Boga, Karim Konaté.