World Cup finalists in each of the last two editions, France continue their preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026 with an intriguing friendly against African giants Ivory Coast at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. With both nations arriving in excellent form, fans can expect a competitive encounter, although Les Bleus remain strong favorites on home soil.

France vs Ivory Coast Match Preview

Match News and Current Form

France head into this friendly as one of the leading contenders for World Cup glory. Didier Deschamps’ side have been in exceptional form, winning eight of their last nine matches while averaging an impressive 2.6 goals per game.

The French attack continues to be one of the most feared in international football, with a blend of youth and experience capable of dismantling any defense. Confidence is also high after a dominant run of performances that has seen France score freely while remaining solid defensively.

Home advantage further strengthens their position. France are unbeaten in their last six home matches, winning five and drawing one while conceding just a single goal. Their record in Nantes is equally impressive, having never lost in ten previous matches played in the city.

Ivory Coast arrive in France with momentum of their own. The Elephants have lost just once in their last eight matches, recording six wins and one draw during that period. Recent victories over Scotland and South Korea showcased their growing confidence ahead of the World Cup.

However, facing one of the tournament favorites represents a significant step up in quality. The Ivorians struggled in their most recent meeting with a FIFA top-10 European nation, suffering a 3-0 defeat against England, and they could face similar difficulties against France’s elite attacking unit.

Head-to-Head Record

France hold the advantage in previous meetings between the two nations.

Last Three Meetings

• France Wins: 2
• Draws: 1
• Ivory Coast Wins: 0

The most recent encounter ended in a 2-1 victory for France in March 2022.

Hot Stats and Streaks

• France have won 8 of their last 9 matches.
• France have scored 3+ goals in 7 of their last 12 friendlies.
• Each of France’s last 7 matches produced over 2.5 goals.
• France are unbeaten in 10 previous matches played in Nantes.
• Ivory Coast have scored 13 goals across their last 5 matches.
• Three of Ivory Coast’s last five games produced over 3.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch

France – Désiré Doué

The exciting young attacker scored a brace in his last international appearance and continues to emerge as one of France’s most dangerous attacking weapons.

Ivory Coast – Nicolas Pépé

The experienced winger ended the club season strongly and remains one of Ivory Coast’s biggest threats in transition and one-on-one situations.

Team News

France could be without Arsenal defender William Saliba, who remains a fitness concern.

Ivory Coast are expected to miss defender Evan Ndicka due to injury, which could weaken an already challenged backline against France’s explosive attack.

France vs Ivory Coast Betting Tips

Best Bet: France to Win & Score Over 2.5 Team Goals

France’s attacking form has been relentless, and against an Ivory Coast defense missing key personnel, Les Bleus should create plenty of chances.

Alternative Bet: Over 2.5 Match Goals

France’s last seven matches have all produced over 2.5 goals, making this another strong betting angle.

Both Teams to Score: Yes

Ivory Coast have scored 13 goals in their last five matches and possess enough attacking quality to find the net even if France dominate.

Correct Score Prediction

France 3-1 Ivory Coast

The visitors have enough attacking talent to trouble France, but the hosts’ superior quality, home advantage, and incredible attacking depth should ultimately prove decisive.

Final Prediction

France to Win

France Over 2.5 Team Goals

Over 2.5 Match Goals

Both Teams to Score – Yes

Correct Score: France 3-1 Ivory Coast

France look well-positioned to continue their impressive run of results and should deliver another high-scoring performance as they continue their World Cup preparations.