Tens of thousands of jubilant fans crammed the streets of
Just as in 2015 for their last
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 Houphouët-Boigny stadium.
Wearing 'African champions' t-shirts the 2024
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
After their lap of honour the players stepped on to the pitch, one by one, with
"
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 losing 4-0 to
Their group-stage showing led to the departure of veteran French coach
He was replaced by Emerse Fae, a former Ivorian international who had never coached before.
Yet Fae oversaw an incredible turnaround in the team's fortunes, as the Ivorians came from behind to beat holders
After beating the
"After that 4-0 defeat I was downhearted but we were still in it and a new team was born," reflected Junior Djedjess.
The celebrations continue for the team on Tuesday when they will be received by the country's president
Copyright 2024 Vanguard. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)., source