Burkina Faso vs. Mauritania (Tuesday, 2.00pm)
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The sun-drenched Stade Bouake prepares for a Group D battle as Burkina Faso and Mauritania face off in Tuesday afternoon's opening clash.
Looking to build on their impressive recent record, the Stallions, semifinalists in two of the last three Africa Cup of Nations, aim to emulate their 2013 run to the final, while the Lions of Chinguetti will have their sights set on recording their first-ever win at the tournament.
We say: Burkina Faso 1-0 Mauritania
Burkina Faso may struggle to break down a stubborn Mauritania defence on Tuesday, but their.experience and superior firepower should give them the edge.
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Tunisia vs. Namibia (Tuesday, 5.00pm)
© Reuters
Tunisia and Namibia raise the curtain on their Africa Cup of Nations campaigns when they face off at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium on Tuesday.
The teams have been drawn in Group E of the tournament where they will battle it out with South Africa and Mali for a place in the knockout phase.
We say: Tunisia 2-0 Namibia
Tunisia have more experienced players at this level and will fancy their chances of securing maximum points. We can see the North Africans getting the job done in a relatively comfortable manner.
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Mali vs. South Africa (Tuesday, 8.00pm)
© Reuters
Mali and South Africa kick off their quest for glory in the Africa Cup of Nations when they go head to head at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Both sides have been drawn in Group E of the continental showpiece and will contend with Namibia and 2004 champions Tunisia for a place in the knockout stages.
We say: Mali 2-1 South Africa
Despite their injury crisis, Mali have a very solid and experienced squad and will be backing themselves to continue their fine run of results. Les Aigles' have an impressive opening-day record at the Africa Cup of Nations and we fancy them to claim a narrow victory in this one.
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Barney Corkhill
