Asamoah Gyan believes Ghana's 3-0 victory over Swaziland was the ideal start as the Black Stars aim to reach the finals of the 2012 African Cup of Nations.

Goals from midfielder Andre Ayew, striker Prince Tagoe and defender Hans Adu-Sarpei secured the win at Somhlolo Stadium in Lobamba on Sunday.

And the result sees Ghana go top of the standings in Group I on goal difference after Sudan beat Congo 2-0 in the group’s opening fixture on Saturday.

Gyan, who recently signed for Sunderland in a club record deal came close to finding the back of the net but was denied before his substitution in the second half and the striker admits the hosts watched by King Mswati played well.

“We were the better side,” Gyan said, “(even though) the home team played and fought well.”

Ghana's next match in the qualifiers is at home to Sudan later in October.