Diomande starts as Ivory Coast stun France | OneFootball

With Yan Diomande in the starting XI, Ivory Coast laid down a real marker one week before the start of the World Cup. Against world number one France, Les Éléphants came from behind in Nantes to claim a surprise 2-1 win in their final warm-up match.

France controlled the early stages and pinned Ivory Coast back for long spells. Diomande had his work cut out against a top-class back line featuring former Leipzig players Ibrahima Konaté and Dayot Upamecano.

Even so, our number 49 was repeatedly involved in his side’s attacking play and offered a threat in flashes with his pace.

Brief scare

There was a moment of concern after around 15 minutes when Diomande landed awkwardly on his left shoulder following a challenge and required treatment. He was quickly given the all-clear, though, and the 19-year-old was able to continue.

France rewarded themselves for their pressure shortly before half time, with Rayan Cherki scoring from Konaté’s assist to give them a deserved lead.

Côte d'Ivoire showed far more courage after the restart. Guéla Doué finished off a fine move to equalise at 1-1 (53’), setting the comeback in motion.

Warning sign for Germany

Diomande’s evening came to an end after 67 minutes, then watching from the bench as his teammates completed the upset: Amad Diallo finished off an excellent move in the 84th minute to secure a much-celebrated 2-1 victory.

The win over France underlines Ivory Coast’s strong form, with only two defeats in their last 14 internationals.

This result should serve as a warning sign for David Raum and Germany, with the DFB-Team set to face Diomande and Les Éléphants at the World Cup on 20th June.

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