Ivory Coast shocks France in Paris pre-World Cup friendly

Ivory Coast stunned France 3-2 in a World Cup warm-up at Parc des Princes. Sébastien Haller scored twice as the Elephants claimed their first victory over Les Bleus since 1998.

France struck first through Aurélien Tchouaméni’s 9th-minute header. Haller doubled the lead in the 22nd minute with a close-range finish after a deflected effort from Christian Kouamé.

Ivory Coast equalized before halftime through Sébastien Haller’s second, slotting home from close range. France nearly restored their lead when Ousmane Dembélé forced a fingertip save from Yahia Fofana in stoppage time.

Second-half goals saw Ivory Coast take control. Franck Kessié restored parity in the 51st minute with a low drive past Mike Maignan. Sébastien Haller completed his hat-trick in the 65th minute after another Kouamé deflection created the chance.

France pulled one back through Randal Kolo Muani in the 77th minute, but Ivory Coast held firm to secure the upset. Maignan made several key saves late to prevent further damage.

The result marks Ivory Coast’s first win against France in 25 years. Both teams now turn their focus to final World Cup preparations ahead of Qatar.