Nigerians continue to savour their late winner over the Ghana in yesterday’s group D clash in the African Nations Cup.

"We've got something to prove -- that teams who are not going to the World Cup can beat the ones who are," Super Eagles striker Peter Odemwingie told reporters after the Group D win.

But Ghana defender Samuel Osei Kuffour was utterly baffled by the defeat, particularly after his side created two close-range chances for Kingston Laryea and Mathew Amoah.

"We had two great opportunities to get a goal but couldn't take them," Kuffour said. "Nigeria had one chance and it was 1-0.

"I can't understand how we lost this game, it's killing me. I just don't know -- God knows better."

Ghana are playing the tournament without their imposing central midfielder Michael Essien as the Chelsea man is injured.

"Michael is a great player...we respect him and we'd love him to be here," Kuffour said.

"We miss him and we played our best. But we will need him when we go to the World Cup."

Nigeria beat Ghana 1-0 on Monday in Port Said.