Egypt came from behind to beat Nigeria 3-1 in impressive style in the first Group C match of the African Cup of Nations in Benguela, Angola.

Egypt opened the defence of their Africa Cup of Nations title by defeating Nigeria 3-1, to end a 23-year-old winless run against the West Africans. The six-time champions put behind them the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup, with the perfect start to progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.

Against the run of play, Nigerians took the lead after 14 minutes through Chinedu Obasi, who hit a great strike from outside the area past Essam El-Hadary. Emad Motaeb drew Egypt level in the 33rd minute from a quick counter-attack, rounding Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama before slotting the ball into an empty net.

Hassan gave the reigning champions the lead in the 54th minute when he powered home a deflected effort past Enyeama from outside the area. And substitute Mohamed Nagi capped off a good display when he drilled in a stoppage-time third to the delight of the 32,000-strong crowd.