2019 Africa Cup of Nations begins with spectacular opening ceremony - in pictures

Cheered on by a full capacity of 75,000 supporters, the opening ceremony comprised hundreds of dancers, giant pyramids and impressive pyrotechnics

Supporters of Egypt cheer before the opening match of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations between Egypt and Zimbabwe at Cairo International Stadium in Cairo. EPA

Jon Turner

Jun 22, 2019

The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) began in style on Friday night with a spectacular opening ceremony at the Cairo International Stadium.

Cameroon manager Clarence Seedorf has not had the most ideal preparation for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations following a pay dispute between players and the football association. Reuters

Cameroon squad arrives late for Africa Cup of Nations after pay dispute

Mohamed Salah set to thrive in the heat - 2019 Africa Cup of Nations talking points

Javier Aguirre interview: Egypt manager on 'humble' Salah and handling Africa Cup of Nations pressure

Cheered on by a full capacity of 75,000 supporters, the opening ceremony comprised hundreds of dancers, giant pyramids and impressive pyrotechnics, culminating in a large fireworks display.

While the opening match struggled to deliver the same wow factor as the ceremony, home fans still went home satisfied following a 1-0 win over Zimbabwe.

For the best pictures from the opening ceremony, browse through the photo gallery above. To move on to the next image, click on the arrows, or if using a mobile device simply swipe.