World Cup Warm-Ups: Ivory Coast Stuns France, Spain Held by Iraq
European giants France and Spain faced unexpected setbacks on Friday as they continued their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, with Les Bleus suffering a shock defeat to Ivory Coast and a depleted Spanish side held to a draw by Iraq.
Ivorian Comeback Stuns Nantes
At the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, Didier Deschamps’ France appeared to be in control after a bright start. Manchester City forward Rayan Cherki broke the deadlock in the 45th minute, sending the hosts into the locker room with a deserved 1-0 lead.
However, the second half belonged to the “Elephants.” Strasbourg full-back Guéla Doué ignited the comeback, equalizing in the 53rd minute. The Ivorian resurgence was completed in the 84th minute when Manchester United star Amad Diallo found the net, following excellent build-up play from Doué. Interestingly, Guéla’s brother, French international Désiré Doué, watched the turnaround from the French bench as an unused substitute.
For the Ivorians, the victory serves as a major statement of intent as they return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2014. France will look to bounce back on Monday against Northern Ireland before departing for North America.
Understrength Spain Held by Resilient Iraq
In A Coruña, a heavily rotated Spain squad struggled to break down a disciplined Iraq side, finishing with a 1-1 draw at the Riazor Stadium. Missing key stars including Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Pedri, and Nico Williams, Luis de la Fuente’s side lacked their usual clinical edge.
Barcelona’s Ferran Torres gave “La Roja” the lead in the 16th minute, but the advantage was short-lived. Iraq, returning to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, responded with grit. Merchas Doski, who plays for Czech side Viktoria Plzen, secured the equalizer in the 27th minute to earn a historic result for the visitors.
Road to 2026
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is fast approaching, with teams finalizing their rosters and tactics:
- France: Chasing their third star after titles in 1998 and 2018, France opens their campaign on June 16 against Senegal.
- Spain: The 2010 winners and reigning European champions will debut on June 15 against Cape Verde.
- Ivory Coast: Slated for Group E alongside Germany, Ecuador, and Curaçao, they face Ecuador in their opener on June 15.
- Iraq: Making a long-awaited return, Iraq begins their Group I journey against Norway on June 16.
The tournament is set to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, marking the first time the event will feature 48 teams across three host nations.
Image: Pexels – Adera Abdoulaye Dolo
