Defender Alexander Djiku was named Man of the Match as Ghana suffered defeat to Cape Verde in their opening Group B game at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Fenerbache centre-back worked hard and was on target for the Blacks Stars as Ghana lost 2-1 at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.

Djiku was outstanding and by miles the most impressive player from both sides on the day.

Meanwhile, following a quick start by the Blue Sharks, Jamiro Monteiro opened the scoring in the 17th minute after pouncing on a Jovane Carbral strike.

After the break, Djiku levelled with a powerful header from a Jordan Ayew corner but Cape Verde left it late to grab the winner in injury time, Garry Rodrigues took advantage of a defensive mistake to slot home for Cape Verde.

The Black Stars will next face seven-time champions Egypt before ending their group with a tricky game against Mozambique.

Meanwhile Ghanaians have blasted the players for their poor performance.

Aside Dziku, the only other bright spots were Ashimeru, Paintsil and Semenyo.

By Sammy Heywood Okine