France football team gears up for World Cup after friendly loss to Ivory Coast

France's national football side suffered a surprise 2‑1 defeat to the Ivory Coast in a friendly on June 4, 2026, ending a streak of seven wins in its World Cup preparations. Coach Didier Deschamps is expected to adjust the lineup ahead of the next warm‑up match.

Four days later, France will face Northern Ireland at the Decathlon Arena Stade Pierre‑Mauroy on June 8, 2026. The Irish side arrived after a morale‑boosting win over Guinea, while France looks to restore confidence before the tournament. Several players, including Lucas Digne, Maxence Lacroix and N'Golo Kanté, are in contention for starting spots as the team seeks a winning performance.

Analysts predict a two‑goal victory for France, citing the team's recent high‑scoring displays and Northern Ireland's struggles against French opponents historically.