Bata (Equatorial Guinea), Jan 20 (IANS): Ghana opened their African Cup of Nations (Afcon) campaign with a 1-2 loss to West African rivals Senegal in a Group C match played at the Mongomo Stadium.

Mame Biram Diouf and Moussa Sow scored the second half goals to give the Lions of Teranga maximum points Monday night, reports Xinhua.

It was also the first time Senegal beat Ghana in an Afcon match.

Ghana skipper Andre Ayew, who plies his trade in France, netted the opening goal in the 12th minute from the penalty spot.

Ayew who had been brought down in the box by Senegal's goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul converted the penalty confidently.

Ghana continued to dominate play against a physical Senegal team.

Diouf's hard shot for Senegal in the 34th minute was blocked by the Black Stars goalie Razak Braimah.

After the break, Senegal piled of on the pressure on Ghana.

Diouf, who plays club football with Stoke City in the England Premier League, made it 1-1 after heading in a well taken long cross.

The Senegal team created several scoring opportunities and were rewarded with an injury-time goal from Sow.