With a week to go until the start of the World Cup, two of the main favorites for the title stumbled in the penultimate pre-tournament tests. France lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast this Thursday (4), in Nantes, and Spain drew 1-1 with Iraq, in A Coruña.
The two teams return to the field on Monday (8) before their World Cup debut, in friendlies against Northern Ireland and Peru, respectively.
The French took the lead with a goal from Rayan Cherki in the first half, but conceded the comeback after the break. Guela Doue and Amad Diallo scored for the Elephants and defeated the favorite at home.
The defeat raised alarm bells, but the players tried to minimize the result. “It’s a shame to lose, but we are in the preparation phase, we remain confident,” said Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni. “There is no conclusion to draw from this game. We will be ready.”
France debuts in the World Cup against Senegal on June 16, in New York. The team is in Group I, alongside Norway and Iraq.
Spain, the current European champion, saved its main players for the clash at home. Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Pedri, Rodri and other starters were left out as a physical precaution, leaving coach Luis de la Fuente with a heavily modified team.
The scenario generated a low-intensity game. Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a quick counterattack. Iraq tied at 27, with a beautiful shot by Merchas Doski that went past goalkeeper Joan Garcia. Torres still hit the post in the 40th minute, but Spain was unable to break through the organized Iraqi blockade.
The Spanish travel to North America this Friday (5) and play their last friendly against Peru, in Mexico, on Monday (8). They debut in the World Cup in Group H, against Cape Verde, with clashes to follow against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
With information from Reuters
