Doue scores twice as France cruise past Colombia in World Cup warm-up
France treated this warm-up match before the World Cup as a chance to experiment, and the biggest beneficiary was Doue. The 20-year-old PSG attacker scored in each half to announce himself on the international stage, and Marcus Thuram added a first-half goal to give Les Bleus a comfortable evening in Maryland.
Doue takes his chance
With several first-choice players rested, Deschamps handed Doue a starting role on the left of France's attack. He rewarded the faith after half an hour, cutting inside before finishing low into the far corner. His second came midway through the second half and carried more confidence, a quick exchange of passes on the edge of the box before a curled effort that gave the goalkeeper no chance. For a player who cost PSG 50 million euros in 2024, it has taken time to settle, but this performance suggested the tournament in North America could be his breakout moment.
Thuram adds to tally
Thuram's goal in the 41st minute gave France a 2-0 cushion at the break. The Inter Milan striker has been in strong form all season and his movement caused Colombia problems throughout the first half. He could have had a second before being substituted early in the second period.
Colombia pull one back
Jhaminton Campaz scored for Colombia in the 77th minute, a well-taken effort that briefly threatened to create some late tension. But France's control of the match was never seriously in doubt. Colombia, who impressed at the 2024 Copa America, will hope this was simply a flat night rather than a sign of things to come as they prepare for their first World Cup since 2018.
France building momentum
This win makes it four in a row for France across all competitions. Deschamps has options all over the pitch and the return of depth in wide attacking positions gives him flexibility that few other managers at the World Cup will enjoy. The tournament starts in June, and France head into it looking like genuine contenders once again.
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