Fans in a frenzy as 'Elephants' unite a war-torn nation
February 12, 2006
Abidjan - Beaten African Nations Cup finalists Ivory Coast returned to a rapturous welcome here yesterday, the day after they lost to hosts Egypt 4-2 on penalties, the match having finished 0-0 after extra-time.
Several thousand fans were at the airport to greet "The Elephants", who narrowly missed out on landing the country's second African Nations Cup title.
"You have lost but we remain proud of you," was the message on many of the banners displayed by the fans, whose only salvation from the political turmoil in their country comes from the football team which brings together the north and the south - albeit briefly.
The fans fought to catch a glimpse of the squad - who beat bitter rivals Cameroon and Nigeria on their way to the final - with people climbing onto the roofs of cars and on the shoulders of friends.
Ivory Coast's outstanding goalkeeper Jean-Jacques Tizie was overcome by their reception.
"We weren't expecting such an extraordinary welcome," Tizie said.
"That only goes to prove the unique bond between the people and the team."
The football team have always tried to set an example to the rest of the country and after they had all but sealed their place at the World Cup finals last year, captain Didier Drogba led them in a peace prayer for the nation.
"Ivorians, we beg your forgiveness. Let us come together and put this war behind us."
The team were, according to a presidential source, set to meet President Laurent Gbagbo - who gave them a house each after they qualified for the World Cup finals - in his palace after taking a motorcade ride through the capital.
Ivorian police desperately tried to clear a way for the motorcade as it threatened to be swamped by the crowds.
Hundreds of young Ivorians ran through the streets of Abidjan desperately trying to catch sight of their heroes as rumours circulated about whether they would go straight to the presidential palace or the national stadium. - Sapa-AFP
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