Montreal FANS | Côte d’Ivoire 1–0 DR Congo | #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 – Semi-Finals

The Africa Cup of Nations remains much more than just a sporting competition. It embodies a true celebration of unity, passion, and African identity. This year, Côte d’Ivoire stands as the beating heart of that excitement, where the victory of the Elephants has sparked a wave of national pride and shared joy across the continent.

Among the voices rising in celebration, Ashraf’s words resonate with fervor and conviction: “AFCON is at home! We do what we want, we score when we want, we win when we want. Everything we do is with God.” For him, his team’s success is not a matter of chance, but the result of faith and perseverance. “We were the last, now we are the first. It’s always God. We can’t thank anyone else — it’s only God,” he adds with emotion.

This heartfelt expression reflects the deep spirituality and solidarity that drive Ivorians. In the streets, orange, white, and green flags wave proudly while car horns and songs echo late into the night. For many, Côte d’Ivoire’s victory represents not only a sporting achievement but also a symbol of rebirth and hope for an entire people.

Ashraf also takes the time to salute African brotherhood, especially Morocco: “Morocco, always Morocco, thank you Morocco, it’s a brother.” His message highlights the spirit of respect and camaraderie that defines African football, where every nation feels connected to the success of the others.

Sarah, a young Ivorian supporter, shares the collective excitement. Jumping with joy after her team’s historic qualification, she declares: “I’m so happy! Côte d’Ivoire, nothing to say, we’re the best. There’s no competition!” For her, this victory symbolizes the players’ determination and talent, but also the strength of a nation united behind its champions.

On the opposing side, respect and sportsmanship remain strong. Peter, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, warmly congratulates the winners: “Today it didn’t work out. The Ivorians were stronger than us. They had confidence, and they won. Maybe the difficult situation in our country weighed on us a bit, but overall, congratulations to the Ivorians.” Despite the defeat, he focuses on the beauty of the tournament: “It’s Africa. It was a beautiful AFCON, even though we were eliminated. I sincerely hope Côte d’Ivoire wins this cup.”

Armand, another Ivorian fan, perfectly sums up the national mood: “Côte d’Ivoire’s qualification was incredible! Now we’re in the final. It’s pure joy. We believed in it, and the players made us dream.”

This explosion of joy, mixed with gratitude and humility, illustrates the unifying power of African football. Through victories and defeats, celebrations and tears, the AFCON reminds everyone that sport can unite where everything else seems to divide.

Beyond scores and trophies, this edition is already shaping up to be a defining moment in African football history. It carries the voice of a vibrant youth, a people seeking pride, and a continent more united than ever around its shared passion.

Côte d’Ivoire, now in the final, prepares to write a new chapter in its legend. And for its supporters, one thing is certain: “This is our AFCON. It’s staying here at home.”