It’s a chance for the fans to be back to stadiums: Sisi

CAIRO, 22 June 2019: With the attendance of Egypt’s president, Abdel Fatah al-Sisi , Egypt defeated Zimbabwe 1_0 at the opening game of 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi welcomed all African teams participating in the 2019 African Nations Championship (AFCON) in his inaugurating speech, on Friday, wishing them luck.

Sisi arrived earlier at the stadium, giving green light for the championship, welcoming the African football teams and fans “in their second home, Egypt”.

Attended the ceremony, the Swiss president of Confederation of the International Football Association "FIFA" Gianni Infantino , and partner of the event Ahmad Ahmad, President of the CAF, as well as Dr. Mostafa Madbouli, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Championship and Dr. Ashraf Subhi, Minister of Youth.

Sisi talked to ON Sport channel about the AFCON Opening ceremony and the attendance of the Egyptian fans.

“Congratulation on the amazing organization, thanks for everyone,” Sisi said after the match.

“It’s a very good start for us. All the tournament aspects starting from ticketing system, new procedures & new facilities; we have to maintain that,” Sisi added.

“It’s a chance for the fans to attend the Egyptian League & Cup matches. That’s all we want, fans should attend, cheer & enjoy the matches,” Sisi concluded.

Mahmoud Hassan known as Trezeguet scored Egypt's winning goal seven minutes before half time after a wonderful play with Ayman Ashraf.

The 2019 AFCON opening ceremony was just amazing on Friday night at Cairo stadium.

With the attendance of Egypt’s president, Abdel Fatah al-Sisi , Egypt defeated Zimbabwe 1_0 at the opening game of 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Mahmoud Hassan known as Trezeguet scored Egypt's winning goal seven minutes before half time after a wonderful play with Ayman Ashraf.

With fireworks, pharaonic costumes and joyful song by Egyptian folk singer Hakim, Nigerian Femi kuti and Côte d'IvoirenDobetgnahore, the 2019 African Nations Championship (AFCON) kicked off at Cairo International Stadium on Friday.

Egypt proved to the world that it can organize any tournament in a short time. Here are some of the world’s reaction to the historic ceremony. Around 70,000 attendants packed Cairo stadium for the first time since 2015 when it hosted a game for Egypt.