Rwanda beats Cote d'Ivoire in Africa Cup tourney opener

Rwanda's Amavubi beat Cote d'Ivoire 1-0 in Saturday's African Nations Championship (CHAN) opening game that took place in Amahoro National Stadium.

Defender Emery Bayisenge scored a 16th minute stunner for Amavubi before half-time sending the Rwandan fans into frenzy.

A record 25,000 crowd watched the game that was officially opened by Rwanda President Paul Kagame and Issa Hayatou, acting FIFA president.

In the second half of the game, the Elephants piled more pressure on Rwanda's side but they failed to get the equalizer.

The opening game saw various local Rwandan artists perform at the spectacular opening ceremony. They include musicians, acrobats, Rwanda traditional troupe and drummers.

The Amavubi had a chance to go 2-0 up on the hour mark but the Elephants' goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare managed to keep it out.

Excited Rwandans could not hold their excitement after the game; many soccer enthusiasts thronged nearby bars and restaurants to celebrate the win.

"God has started answering my prayers. I prayed for Rwanda to win the game against Cote d'Ivoire, and it has now happened. I am looking forward to see Rwanda reigning as a champion of CHAN," a soccer fan named Tom Uwimaniduhaye told Xinhua.

The tournament is the biggest sporting event Rwanda has ever hosted. It involves 16 teams playing in three cities - with the capital Kigali, as well as Gisenyi in the western side and Huye in the southern Rwanda all hosting games.

Cote d'Ivoire is the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions.

Rwanda is the fourth country to host CHAN after Cote d'Ivoire in 2009, Sudan in 2011 and South Africa 2014.

The fourth edition runs from January 16 and until February 7. Enditem