Equatorial Guinea were handed a 1-0 defeat in their first game of the African Cup of Nations group stages.

The Ivory Coast claimed a narrow success thanks to a Max Gradel goal in the fifth minute.

The Elephants narrowly battled past Equatorial Guinea thanks to their captain, former Bournemouth and Leeds United attacker Gradel.

He unleashed an outstanding strike from around 20 yards out with the outside of his right boot to beat the goalkeeper.

Equatorial Guinea did have chances to equalize, but their forwards were profligate throughout the contest.