In Cote D’Ivoire, a civil war erupted on September 19, 2002, with opposition forces launching attacks on three cities, including Abidjan, against President Laurent Gbagbo. The conflict persisted for five years until football emerged as a unifying force.
In 2007, the national football team, led by Didier Drogba, played a vital role in bringing the nation together. Drogba’s request to play a crucial match in Bouake, a rebel stronghold, symbolized an effort to bridge the divide in the country.
The match, an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar, culminated in a resounding 5-0 victory, with Drogba scoring the final goal.
Drogba’s initiative was significant, as it resulted in both leaders standing together for the national anthems, providing a momentous spectacle for the Ivorian people.
The unity and jubilation witnessed in the stadium affirmed the end of the civil war, fulfilling the footballers’ promise to unite the nation through celebration. Drogba emphasized that the support for this endeavor came from “All Africans,” highlighting the collective backing he received.