“Proud to be African”

That was the trend on social media platforms worldwide on Friday (21 June 2019) as the Total Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2019 was officially opened at the Cairo International Stadium in the Egyptian capital.

The continent’s flagship football competition was opened by a short but simple, symbolic and breathtaking ceremony that attracted world’s eyes and deserved praise from football stakeholders all over the globe.

The tournament was officially opened by a word from Egypt’s president, His Excellency Abdel Fattah El Sisy, and CAF President Ahmad Ahmad.

Afterwards a bright opening ceremony took place with more than 70,000 fans in the stands doing their part with their colorful devices. Fireworks lit the skies of Cairo with the 24 participating teams’ flags and logos being showed on a giant Pyramid that was placed in the center.

With the tournament’s mascot “Tut” holding the trophy, the tournament’s song was performed in Arabic, English and French by infamous continental artists Hakim (Egypt), Femi Kuti (Nigeria) and Dobet Gnahore (Cote d’Ivoire).

Just a little bit over 20 minutes, but that was enough to make the world stand in bewilderment and appreciation to the African culture and Egyptian civilization.

The 2019 Total AFCON takes place from 21 June to 19 July 2019 in the Egyptian cities of Cairo, Alexandria, Ismailia and Suez.