The first day of the group stages of the African Nations Championship featured matches in Group D, where DR Congo, Gabon, Burundi, and Mauritania competed. Mauritania, playing in their first continental tournament in 54 years of independence, faced DR Congo in their opening match. Coach Patrice Neveu acknowledged the lack of recognition for Mauritanian athletes but emphasized their determination to showcase their qualities despite the lack of experience.
DR Congo, considered an African football powerhouse, was missing star player Trésor Mputu, complicating their campaign. The other match in Group D featured Gabon against Burundi, with Gabon captain Daniel Cousin, at over 37 years old, demonstrating his continued prowess as a key player for his team.
Match Schedule:
- DR Congo vs. Mauritania (3 p.m. GMT)
- Gabon vs. Burundi (6 p.m. GMT
