President Jacob Zuma officially opened the 29th Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) soccer tournament at the National Stadium in Soweto, south of Johannesburg, on Saturday (January 19 2013). Above: Performers entertain cheering fans at the stadium. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

The entire soccer field was covered in rainbow-coloured material and the performers assembled to form the South African flag. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

Performers raise red balls to make a wave effect. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

The opening ceremony lasted for 40 minutes. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

A structure made of brick walls displaying the words ‘illiteracy’, ‘poverty’ and ‘HIV/Aids’ was part of the opening ceremony. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

South Africa’s 1996 winning team came on to the field with the trophy, accompanied by the tournament mascot. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press

Fans show their true colours at the National Stadium in Soweto. Picture: Leon Sadiki/City Press

The Afcon opening match between Bafana Bafana and Cape Verde ended with a 0-0 draw. Picture: Herman Verwey/City Press