Ivory Coast Welcomes AFCON Heroes with National Celebration
Ivory Coast erupted in jubilation on Monday as the newly crowned champions of Africa received a hero’s welcome upon their return from the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Fresh from their dramatic victory over Ghana in Sunday’s final, Yaya Touré and his teammates were greeted by President Alassane Ouattara and members of the Ivorian government at Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan.
The reception was one of national pride and unity. At precisely 2:15 p.m., the Elephants touched down to a thunderous welcome, with thousands of jubilant supporters draped in the iconic orange jerseys of the national team lining the streets and flooding the airport grounds. The team’s victory, sealed in a nail-biting penalty shootout (9–8), brought an end to a 23-year wait for continental glory — the nation’s second AFCON title following their first in 1992.
President Ouattara led a government delegation to greet the champions at the airport, reflecting the significance of the win for a country often fractured by political tensions in recent years. The players, visibly moved by the warmth of the reception, took time to wave to fans and pose with the trophy, symbolising a triumph that has brought hope and joy to millions of Ivorians.
From the airport, the team’s convoy embarked on a celebratory parade through the capital. The route took them from Port-Bouët’s Place Akwaba to the Plateau district, travelling along Boulevard Valéry-Giscard-d’Estaing. According to national broadcaster RTI, the procession would culminate in a grand reception at the Félix-Houphouët-Boigny Stadium, where thousands more were gathered in anticipation.
The mood throughout Abidjan was festive, with dancing, singing, and flag-waving filling the streets. For many Ivorians, this moment served not only as a sporting celebration but also as a reminder of the unifying power of football.
The Elephants’ success has been hailed as a story of resilience. Under coach Hervé Renard, the team overcame a shaky start to the tournament and rallied through determination and team spirit. Veteran goalkeeper Boubacar Barry, who scored the winning penalty in the final, has emerged as a national icon overnight.
As the players tour the capital and bask in the adoration of their country, the message is clear: this triumph belongs to all Ivorians — a moment of collective pride, unity, and joy.
