Grieving crowd broke into jubilation Wednesday night as Atlas of Morocco offered life-line to hosts, Cote d’Ivoire in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

The hosts were arithmetically out until group table-toppers and already qualified Morocco beat Zambia 1-0 in the last group match.

With a draw, Morocco would have still qualified while Zambia needed a draw to remain. The crowd continued to cheer the Moroccans.

According to Ivorian newspaper, Fratmat, the president of the Boukani Regional Council on his official Facebook page wrote: “With a draw, Morocco was reassured to be first in their group. More than a match, we witnessed a celebration of brotherhood and love between our two nations. They fought today for Ivory Coast with passion. Congratulations and full gratitude to Morocco.

“To our footballing elephants, know how to appreciate the opportunity. The time has come for unity, discipline and work. Give back to the nation what it proudly gave you. Hearts for the Fatherland””

Another Ivorian, Saki Penda writes: “Thank you to our Moroccan brothers. I admit that the prospect of owing our qualification to the Eagles of Mali did not enchant me, because I do not want to be indebted for anything to the thugs in power in this brother country. For the rest, we have no pride in having obtained our qualification not through our game, but rather through the victory of another team. God has done his part.

“It is now up to the Elephants to reconquer our hearts from the next match. Otherwise, we are not going to be satisfied with the dismissal of the French coach.

“We would demand the resignation of the president of the football federation and that of its entire Executive Committee.”