While waiting for the official opening ceremony scheduled for Friday evening, the 9th Games of La Francophonie have already started in Kinshasa. The various sites selected have hosted the first competitions since Thursday. In the field of football, the U20 selection of the Democratic Republic of Congo unfortunately lost its first match against the Benin team, with a score of 2-0.
The match took place on the completely renovated lawn of the Stade Raphaël, providing an ideal setting for this major competition. Unfortunately for the Leopards U20, they failed to hold their rank against Beninese Cheetahs in great shape. The first half was lackluster, but the visitors took advantage of the second half to launch their dangerous attacks. They finally found the fault in the 57th minute and drove the point home in the last quarter of an hour.
This defeat is a blow for the DRC, which loses important points in this competition. The players will have to get up quickly for their next game against Mali, scheduled for Sunday July 30.
Despite this setback, the Francophonie Games continue in Kinshasa, offering a spectacle rich in cultural and sporting diversity. Athletes from various French-speaking countries give their all to proudly represent their nation and promote the values of La Francophonie.
This event is not limited only to sports competitions. Many exhibitions of arts and cultures are organized, highlighting the richness and diversity of the traditions of the DRC and the participating French-speaking countries.
Yet, despite the enthusiasm and fervor surrounding these Games, some challenges persist. The lack of financial means deprives some athletes of their participation and highlights the need for increased support from the authorities for the development of sport in the country.
In addition, security remains a major concern, particularly in the Beni region of North Kivu, where the rise in crime worries the population. Authorities must take prompt and effective action to ensure the safety of participants and the public.
Despite these challenges, the Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa remain a major event, symbolizing the solidarity and diversity of La Francophonie. They offer a unique opportunity to celebrate youth, sport, culture and the values shared by French-speaking countries, in a festive and warm atmosphere.
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Source: Fatshimetrie.org, link to the original article: [https://fatshimetrie