Egypt registered a hard-fought 27-21 victory over Gabon in the African Handball Nations Championship opener in Cairo. Despite being huge favorites, Egypt struggled to end the first-half with an 11-11 draw after the visitors took the lead several times. The home side were better after the restart, and managed to reach a four-goal lead midway through the second period. Gabon looked frustrated as time went on, allowing Egypt to finish the game six goals up on Thursday. After the game, Egypt manager Gamal Shams was furious due to the below-par performance. "I don't know what's wrong with them," he said. "Gabon were afraid of us but we gave them the chance to take the lead." Shams said he expects a better display against Cameroon on Friday. Cameroon lost their first game against Angola 25-22. The three top teams in the tournament will qualify for the World Cup in 2012. The champions will play in the Olympics in the same year.