Ivory Coast parade through Abidjan, champions of AFCON
Just as in 2015 for their last AFCON triumph, the Elephants roamed the streets of the country's economic capital. Sebastien Haller, who scored the decisive goal in Sunday's 2-1 final win over Nigeria, and the rest of the squad were perched on a truck fitted out for the occasion with a three star sign to mark the Ivorians' third title.
With Monday declared a special holiday fans massed on bridges and avenues, many ignoring the oppressive heat to run alongside the victors' mechanical chariot. After a festive four hour parade the team, under heavy police escort, arrived at the Felix Houphou t-Boigny stadium.
Wearing 'African champions' t-shirts the 2024 AFCON champions did a lap of honour to stands packed with fans - all decked out in orange - the national colour. Some players were clearly moved by the welcome accorded them.
"The overwhelming feeling is one of pride," said Junior Djedjess, one of the fans on hand to soak in the national team's astonishing run after a terrible group stage. With three stars we have now joined the great African nations," he added with only Egypt (seven titles), Cameroon (5) and Ghana (4) boasting better records in the continental showpiece.
After their lap of honour the players stepped on to the pitch, one by one, with Max-Alain Gradel, the only survivor along with Serge Aurier from the last Ivorian team to win the title in 2015, presenting the trophy to the crowd. "Ivory Coast, here is your African cup. May God bless the Ivory Coast" the 36-year-old captain said before handing the trophy to the Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe.
Three weeks ago no one not even the most ardent Elephants supporter could have dreamt of this day. They should have really been knocked out in the group stage after
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