Moussa Sow grabbed a dramatic late winner as Senegal opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 win against Ghana in Group C.
André Ayew put Ghana in front from the penalty spot but Mame Biram Diouf grabbed the equaliser as Senegal heaped the pressure on after the interval.
Senegal deserved the win. As soon as they switched to a back four in the second half, they became much less susceptible to Ghana’s counter attack that had so troubled them up to that point. Senegal’s midfield dominated from there and although Diouf and Sow wasted various chances, the goal that won the game was very nicely crafted and finished.
Algeria rallied from a goal down record a 3-1 victory over South Africa in their opening Africa Cup of Nations clash in Mongomo on Monday night.
Following a goalless first stanza, South Africa claimed the lead through Thuso Phala early in the second half, only for substitute Thulani Hlatshwayo to head the ball past his own 'keeper in the 67 minute. Algeria went on to claim the lead in the 72nd minute through Faouzi Ghoulam before Islam Slimani put the game to bed in the 83rd minute.
Algeria enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the first half and created a whole host of chances from set pieces. South Africa were camped in their own half for large passages of play and gave away several free-kicks in dangerous positions.