GALLERY: Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Equatorial Guinea

The Africa Cup of Nations kicked off on Saturday as a colourful opening ceremony was followed by hosts Equatorial Guinea playing out a 1-1 draw versus Congo in the tournament's inaugural match at the Estadio de Bata.

With African football being known for the stunning visuals it produces, the first day of the competition featured some phenomenal images from both the pitch and the terraces.

So without further ado, here are 10 photos from the opening day of the Africa Cup of Nations:

An Equatorial Guinea supporter looks on ahead of the inaugural match

Supporter holds up sign reading "Stop Ebola"

Supporters surge towards a gate outside the Estadio de Bata

Akon performs at the opening ceremony

A traditional dancer performs at the opening ceremony

Supporters walk towards the Estadio de Bata ahead of kickoff

Police check supporters outside the Estadio de Bata

Dancers perform at the opening ceremony

Equatorial Guinea president Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo speaks at the opening ceremony

Equatorial Guinea's Emilio Nsue celebrates with his teammates after scoring the tournament's first goal