Egypt make perfect start to African Cup of Nations

EGYPT made a perfect start in their quest for an unprecedented third successive African Cup of Nations title by beating World Cup qualifiers Nigeria 3-1 while fellow Group C contenders Benin and Mozambique played out a 2-2 draw in Angola yesterday.

Egypt produced an impressive comeback with goals from Emad Meteab, Ahmed Hassan and Mohammed Naguy after Chinedu Obasi had put Nigeria ahead in the 12th minute.

Having failed to qualify for the World Cup after losing to Algeria in a play-off, Egypt, missing key players, were eager to impress and the six-time champions clearly outclassed a stubborn Nigeria.

Egypt lead the group with three points, Benin and Mozambique have one each, and Nigeria have yet to register.

In the other group game, Razak Omotoyossi converted a 13th-minute penalty to put Benin ahead then Mozambique defender Khan put through his own net six minutes later.

Lobo pulled one back for Mozambique with a header in the 29th minute from a corner, and Fumo equalised in the 55th.

On Saturday, Nigeria meet Benin while Mozambique face Egypt.