Ivory Coast striker Oumar Diakité believes France are the favorites to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, however says the Elephants will deal with their upcoming pleasant in opposition to Les Bleus as a serious fixture somewhat than a routine exhibition match.
The 2 nations are scheduled to satisfy on the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes on June 4 as a part of ultimate preparations for the World Cup.
For each groups, this matchup is a vital alternative to fine-tune their plans earlier than the event begins. France will use this match as preparation for a bunch that additionally consists of Senegal, whereas Ivory Coast put together for Group E, the place they’ll face Ecuador, Curaçao and Germany.
In an unique interview with EOS Officers, Diakité singled out France because the group to beat within the event.
“For me, France is the primary favourite to win the World Cup.”
The previous Stade de Reims ahead pointed to the depth of expertise obtainable within the French nationwide group as a purpose for his evaluation.
“They will beat anybody, even when it is the second group,” he added.
Though the match is formally a pleasant, Diakité insists Ivory Coast will method it with the mentality required for a high-stakes match.
“This match will not be a pleasant match.”
“I need to deal with this match just like the finals earlier than the event.”
The match may also have private significance for the 22-year-old, who spent a lot of his skilled profession in France after becoming a member of Stade de Reims from Salzburg in 2023.
Diakité had a very good expertise on the Nantes venue and is eager to return.
“We performed in Nantes thrice. We gained twice and drew as soon as.”
“I’ve a very good file there.”
However he admits the problem that awaits him might be on one other stage.
“This time it is a match between Mbappe and Dembele.”
Regardless of the power of his opponents, the Ivorian ahead is assured from his earlier expertise in French soccer.
“The nice factor was that once we had been in Ligue 1, we obtained objectives from Mbappe and Dembele.”
“That may encourage me within the recreation.”
For Ivory Coast, this match will not be solely a possibility to strengthen their preparations, but additionally to check themselves in opposition to one of many strongest groups in worldwide soccer within the lead-up to the World Cup.
The Elephants start their World Cup match in opposition to Ecuador, earlier than taking part in Curaçao and Germany of their remaining Group E video games.
