Ivory Coast secured a memorable 2-1 victory over France on Thursday after a late goal from Amad Diallo sealed the win in a World Cup warm-up match in Nantes.
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France started strongly and took the lead just before halftime. Rayan Cherki scored in the final minute of the first half with a powerful low strike after creating space inside the penalty area.
The match also offered another opportunity for France captain Kylian Mbappe to break the national scoring record held by Olivier Giroud. However, Mbappe failed to score in his 97th international appearance and remained on 56 goals, one short of Giroud’s record of 57. Head coach Didier Deschamps substituted him at halftime.
Ivory Coast Fight Back
Ivory Coast responded early in the second half. Guela Doue equalized in the 53rd minute and brought the Elephants back into the contest.
The visitors continued to push forward and found the winning goal six minutes from time. Diallo, who entered the match as a substitute, reacted quickly inside the box and scored the decisive goal.
The result gives Ivory Coast a major confidence boost ahead of future international competitions.
France Continue World Cup Preparations
Despite the defeat, France remain among the favorites for the upcoming World Cup.
The French side will face Northern Ireland national football team in another friendly match in Lille on Monday. They will then begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal national football team on June 16.
Spain Held by Iraq
In another World Cup warm-up match, Spain national football team played to a surprising 1-1 draw against Iraq national football team in A Coruna.
Spain opened the scoring in the 16th minute through captain Ferran Torres.
However, Iraq equalized 11 minutes later when a cross from Merchas Doski caught goalkeeper Joan Garcia off guard.
Spain controlled possession for much of the match. Torres also struck the crossbar before halftime. Nevertheless, the European champions could not find a winning goal.
Coach Luis de la Fuente handed international debuts to seven players who are not part of Spain’s final World Cup squad.
Iran and Switzerland Receive Positive News
Meanwhile, Iran national football team completed their World Cup preparations with a 2-0 victory over Mali in Turkey.
Iran will travel to its tournament base in Mexico after receiving entry visas this week. However, players are still waiting for US visas ahead of group-stage matches scheduled in the United States.
Elsewhere, Breel Embolo received approval for his US visa after an earlier review delayed his travel.
The Switzerland national football team confirmed that Embolo will travel on Friday to join his teammates as preparations continue for the World Cup.
