Ivorians from all walks of life lined the streets to welcome the trophy in Abidjan. The President of the national football association, Jacques Anouma said he was happy that FIFA gave such an opportunity to many Ivorians to see the trophy a few days after the Elephants qualified for their second World Cup tournament following a 1-1 draw with Malawi.

Receiving the trophy at the state House, President Gbagbo said: “Let’s pray for our national football team, the Elephants, they must struggle hard to bring back this trophy, so as to give the opportunity to many persons to touch it.”

Many citizens who had lined up the streets to welcome the trophy were denied access to the state house where the Cup was displayed the first day, but the next day, they took advantage of the public exposition at Palais de la Culture Conference Hall to see the Cup.  

More Ivorians dream of the soccer’s most treasured golden silverware and Drogba Didier has become something like a talisman which will help bring the trophy back to Abidjan for a cheerful and most memorable celebration.