Cotonou (AFP)

"Impossible is not Beninese". This message, hundreds of Beninese posted on social networks to support their national team, which played Friday its first round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations.

On arrival, Benin, who was the first eighth in four participations in the CAN, eliminated Morocco on penalties (1-1, 4 tab 1).

From the last shot, synonymous with victory, euphoric supporters invaded the streets of the city of Cotonou, waving the national flag.

At Haie Vive and Cadjehoun, two residential neighborhoods, employees of shops and upscale restaurants have temporarily stopped the service. Scarves and pennants in hand, they have long chanted "Go squirrels".

About 50 young euphoric, shirtless supporters, who had just watched the game on the big screen, blocked the traffic on one of the busiest streets, greeting the residents, singing and dancing, chanting slogans in favor of the national team, in the din of car horns.

A little further, these young people lay down on the public road, beating the macadam with their hands and singing the victory of the Squirrels.

"This is the first time in the history of our country, we will not sleep for three days," said Sosthène Aguiar, a 24-year-old supporter, shirtless.

Difficult to travel on any artery of the capital, where you could see young people and adults but also elderly people sitting on vehicles or standing behind motorcycles.

- Euphoria -

Paula Milete, in her sixties, who sells rice and beans at the edge of a road in the Houéyiho district, serves free of charge.

"I know they did not win the cup, but it's a big win, Benin has never done so," said the lady who followed the entire match not far from his stall, Nigerians who resell television sets.

At the Cotonou Friendship Stadium, the largest in the country, there was an atmosphere of joy and madness. In addition to the hymn of the team of Benin, "Go squirrels", bars and maquis have played all night "Give Me Freedom", the anthem of the 2010 World Cup.

The exchanges between supporters were going well. On the menu of the discussions, the historic victory and arbitration deemed "approximate" of the meeting.

The more late the hour, the more fans gathered in the streets and bars, some with fanfares to sing and dance.

Same atmosphere of joy on social networks, where dozens of visuals to the glory of Squirrels and especially their goalkeeper have been broadcast massively.

? 2019 AFP