The IX Games of La Francophonie have officially started in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the opening ceremony which will take place this Friday evening at the Stade des Martyrs. However, the first competitions have already taken place, in particular within the framework of the football tournament.
The opening match pitted the DRC under-20 football team against Benin. Unfortunately, the U20 Leopards failed to win, losing 2-0 to the Benin Cheetahs.
The meeting took place on the renovated lawn of the Raphaël Stadium, which was specially fitted out for the Games of La Francophonie. Despite the commitment of the Congolese players, their opponent Benin showed better form, scoring a first goal in the 57th minute of play. The DRC failed to react and conceded a second goal in the last quarter of hour.
This defeat represents a blow for the DRC, which will have to pull themselves together in their next match against Mali on Sunday 30 July. The football competition of the Jeux de la Francophonie therefore promises to be fierce, with teams determined to win the gold medal.
The Games of La Francophonie are a unique opportunity to celebrate the cultural, linguistic and sporting diversity of French-speaking countries. Beyond the competition, they also allow enriching exchanges between the different participating nations. Kinshasa, as the host city, is committed to providing a memorable experience for all athletes and visitors, while respecting the values of La Francophonie.
The next few days will therefore be very intense for all the participants of the Games of La Francophonie, with many competitions in different sporting and cultural disciplines. Spectators will be able to attend exceptional performances and vibrate to the rhythm of the French-speaking spirit that animates this unique event.
There is no doubt that the DRC, despite this initial defeat, will do everything possible to recover and offer good performances in the next matches. The Francophonie Games are an opportunity to highlight the talent and know-how of Congolese athletes, but also to strengthen ties between French-speaking countries through sport.
While waiting for the next sporting events, all eyes are already on the official opening ceremony of the Games of La Francophonie, which promises to be a moment of strong emotions and sharing. Kinshasa is ready to welcome the French-speaking world in a festive and friendly atmosphere, highlighting the cultural and sporting richness of the Democratic Republic of Congo