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France 24
France 24
Sport
FRANCE 24

2026 World Cup: France begin their preparation with a defeat against Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast's defender #17 Guela Doue celebrates scoring the equalising goal during the international friendly football match between France and Ivory Coast ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, France, June 4, 2026. © Franck Fife, AFP

It was a false start for France after losing 2-1 to Ivory Coast in their first warm-up match before the World Cup. While Rayan Cherki put on a show, France lost control in the second half, allowing the Elephants to come back and take the lead, notably thanks to an outstanding performance from Guéla Doué.

In England, Liverpool officially appointed Andoni Iraola as head coach. The Spaniard replaces Arne Slot, who was fired on May 30.

In tennis, the fairytale continues for Maja Chwalinska. The 24-year-old player advanced to the French Open final, becoming the first player from the qualifying rounds ever to reach this stage of the competition.

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