The Elephants From Ivory Coast Are Serious
It may have been a friendly match in Nantes, but the Elephants from Africa had taken it seriously. With just days to go for the FIFA World Cup, both teams had a great opportunity to rehearse before the curtains are lifted on one of the greatest Sporting events on earth.
France pitched A Strong Side in Nantes
France were playing on their home ground in Nantes, and Didier Deschamps, the most celebrated coach in France, decided to field a strong side in the first half, with Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise as notable starters
Rayan Cherki Scored, but The Team was Lacklustre
However, the free-flowing, dominant France appeared a bit scrappy, and though Rayan Cherki scored with a sensational solo effort just before halftime, the French were not that great to watch. Mbappe needed just one more goal to reach Oliver Giroud’s tally of 57 goals ( the highest tally for France), but remained on 56, unable to score.
Deschamps Made The Changes But Ivory Coast Were Good
Deschamps, understandably, rested the entire first-half team, with a new look, second-half unit. Ivory Coast also made the changes, but were more fluent as compared to France throughout the game. They had the French defence scampering with their pace and energy.
Doue & Diallo Scored For The Elephants
Ivory Coast had a flawless qualifying campaign, and in the AFCON too, the Elephants were really good. Guela Doue, the older brother of Desire Doue, who plays for Strasbourg, slotted one into the French net to equalise and then in the 84th minute assisted Amad Diallo, the Man United star, who made a composed finish.
France Go Down 1-2
France could not return the favour and were beaten 1-2 in a disappointing performance in front of their home ground. France are placed in the group of death alongside Senegal, Norway and Iraq. A performance like this will not go unpunished in that Group.
France Have A Tough Group to Handle With Senegal & Norway in the Mix
In Senegal and Norway, France have two big battles to survive and will have to be at their best to counter the Lions of Teranga and the brave Nordics.
Ivory Coast Have Signalled Their Intent
Ivory Coast have signalled their intent. They have a terrific team to boot and should come through unscathed from their Group despite Germany for competition. I am fairly certain that the Ivory Coast are ahead of Germany at this point in time.
Lots To Ponder for Deschamps
A lot of things to ponder for Deschamps. The loss has not gone down well with the French fans. Can we see the collective brilliance of France, which was on display in 2018 and 2022, is the real question. Whether Didier Deschamps’ charisma is fading, and whether Kylian Mbappe is fully in the groove, are some of the questions doing the rounds.
It is a wake-up call for France.
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