Egypt, Nigeria, Uganda off to flying start

Egypt, Uganda and Nigeria have recorded wins in Groups A and B of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite some difficult encounters.

In Group A, the host nation, Egypt started their AFCON 2019 campaign with a victory in front of over 70,000 supporters, as Mohammed Trezeguet's excellent first half strike in the 44th minutes secured a 1-0 win over determined Zimbabwe.

In the other Group game, Uganda recorded their first AFCON win since 1978 as they produced an early tournament shock by defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) 2-0 in Cairo on Saturday courtesy goals from Patrick Kaddu and E. Okwi.

The results meant Uganda would top the host Nation Egypt in Group A with goals difference.

The Pharoes of Egypt would play DR. Congo while Uganda would battle Zimbabwe in the second group games on June 26.

Elsewhere in Group B, tournament favorites Nigeria only needed a late second half goal from substitute Odion Ighalo in the 77th minutes to get off to a winning start on Saturday as they dumped Burundi 1-0 in Alexandria Stadium.

AFCON debutants, Madagascar played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Guinea in their tournament opener on Saturday.

Nigeria would now top the group with three points with Madagascar and Guinea having one apiece.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria would face Guinea on June 26 while debutantes Madagascar would play Burundi on June 27, all at the Alexandria Stadium.