Algeria have beaten South Africa 3-1 in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Desert Warriors, who are pre-tournament favourites, were a goal down after Thuso Phala gave Bafana Bafana the lead on 51 minutes.

South Africa had a chance to make it 2-0 but Tokelo Rantie missed a penalty.

However, a Thulani Hlatshwayo own goal and strikes from Faouzi Ghoulam and Islam Slimani gave Algeria victory.

Senegal were also off to a winning start, coming from behind to beat Ghana 2-1 in the other Group C game.