France Lose to Ivory Coast, Spain Draw Iraq

France lost 1-2 to Ivory Coast in Nantes, while Spain were held 1-1 by Iraq in A Coruña. Both matches marked early exits for the pre‑tournament favorites. Manchester City winger Rayan Cherki put France ahead with a low shot before the break after a flash move. Kylian Mbappé was substituted at halftime as Ivory Coast began their comeback. Guéla Doué, brother of Désiré Doué, levelled for Ivory Coast. Amad Diallo scored in the 84th minute to secure the 2‑1 victory.

Olise dazzles France while his World Cup goal tally stays empty

Barcelona forward Ferran Torres gave Spain an early lead after a swift attack. Iraq, coached by former NAC player Graham Arnold, rallied to equalise. Merchas Doski struck the equaliser with his left foot from outside the penalty area, beating Barcelona keeper Joan García. Iraq held on despite numerous substitutions by both sides. Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams sat on the bench, still recovering from recent injuries. They hope to be fit for Spain’s first World Cup group match against Cape Verde on 15 June. The defeats follow the Netherlands’ 0‑1 loss to Algeria the previous day. France and Spain’s exits underline the tournament’s unpredictable start.