The Teranga Lions of Senegal started their campaign at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations on a winning note, securing a 2-1 win over the Black Stars of Ghana.

Dubbed the “group of death,” many expected fireworks from the two teams on parade and they did live up to their pre-tournament rating. However, it was the Lions that had the last laugh despite falling behind to an early goal in the first half.

Andre Ayew gave Ghana the lead from the penalty spot following Bouna Coundoul’s foul on Christian Atsu as Ghana raced in front after just 12 minutes of action.

The Teranga Lions could have equalized almost immediately when Papy Mison Djilobodji headed over from a corner, while Cheikhou Kouyate was thwarted by Brimah Razak moments later.

Both teams from then onwards continued to press for a goal and Ghana forward Atsu was pretty close when he got a through pass on goal, but his last touch was questionable as he played the ball wide despite sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Ghana was able to end the first half with their 1-0 lead.

As expected, Senegal came back the hungrier of the two teams in the second half and tenacity paid off in the 57th minute when Miame Diouf pulled level.

Senegal got the upper hand in the second half as they got the better chances and troubled the Ghana defence endlessly.

Luckily, second half substitute, Moussa Sow, scored the winner for Senegal with virtually the last kick of the game when he blasted the ball home from Biram Diouf’s cutback.

The result means that former Chelsea Coach, Avam Grant, started his reign as Ghana Coach on a losing note.