Thinking Portugal would easily sweep aside the Elephants, known to cower before big teams, Ivorians saw their team do more than just withstanding but almost carrying the day. Christiano Ronaldo, who was the major fear of a number of fans, was taken care of nicely by the Ivorian defence to the satisfaction of many fans.

Half time already, many supporters who had refused to fly the team’s colours, came out with jerseys, face caps, plastic bracelets, etc. Some held high Didier Drogba’s framed photos as they roam the streets trying to locate the nearest beer parlour for a cold drink, awaiting the second half with fervour.

AfricaNews visited some animated joints around Cocody area of the city and tried to know the reason for this sudden love for the Elephants.

“Look, we weren’t motivated because we thought the players would disappoint us once again like in the past,” said Serge Agouan, a banker. “But with what we’ve just seen in the first half, I think the players are out to reconcile with their disappointed fans. You can feel the fighting spirit and the cohesion and we can go far with this,” he concluded.

The second half was as reassuring as the first, Ivory Coast was able to hold their own, keeping Portugal from doing them havoc. When Drogba managed his entrance, a wide applause cracked across the city, with smiles and contentment on faces, as the national figure was seen back in form and about to show his worth.

But even when Drogba missed a goal opportunity, nobody seemed to curse him like they did in previous cases. “He’s just back from an injury, he’ll do better next time,” a lady told AfricaNews.

Some fans even believed Drogba could have scored if he had entered earlier enough.

Will the fans remain faithful to their team throughout the World Cup? Many said they would henceforth, for Drogba and co.

“Even if Ivory Coast don’t make it further in the tournament, we as supporters, we’re already satisfied with their opener against Portugal,” Ahmed Memoh, a school teacher, said.

Ivory Coast face Brazil in their next match and no matter the outcome, the Elephants need no fear because their new love with fans may not fade too soon.