Yesterday would ever remain green in the minds of Ivorians because of the loss of the Elephants of Cote d’ivoire to the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Before the match, fans went gaga driving their cars and riding their bikes recklessly to show their support for their darling team but against all odds, the Super Eagles surprised everybody to defeat their opponents by a lone goal scored by captain Ekong from the penalty spot.
It is interesting to note that the supporters who wore their teams’ jerseys with flags in their hands, cars, buildings amongst others made mockery of Nigerians before the match.
They were so confident that they were going to win especially when they considered the performance of their team against Guinea Bissau which they won by 2-0 and the Super Eagles lackluster performance against Equatorial Guinea which ended in a 1-1 draw.
The entrance of the stadium was busy with fans trying to enter while the stadium was jam-packed with Ivorian fans with just few Nigerian fans and supporters club members present in the stadium.
At the end of the match, some of the Ivorians who were wining and dining abandoned their snacks, drinks and went home disappointed while those who couldn’t, wore long faces while the town went quiet as if it was a day of mourning for the nation. The interesting aspect is that Nigerians were careful not to celebrate the victory because they don’t know what might happen to them but the Ivorians were very mature and never attack any Nigerian.
The following day was the same. The excitement in the air seized. Some fans removed their flags on their vehicles while the die-hard fans left their national flags on their buildings, vehicles while the streets still have the flags as symbols as the host of the AFCON 2024.
Although, the Ivorians were very disappointed and remained calm, but some couldn’t manage themselves, as they expressed their aggression whenever somebody provokes them especially Nigerians. Your sincerely had a taste of it when he boarded a taxi but notwithstanding, some Ivorians are still friendly and interested in giving a helping.
Meanwhile, the drinking joints, bar and lounge were empty as at press time probably because they are yet to overcome the hangover of losing their second match at the ongoing African Cup of Nations to the Super Eagles.
However, the wish for Ivorians is for yesterday not to repeat itself. They believe so much in their team, and that this is their time to host and win the trophy.
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