Ghana needs win in their next game at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) to improve their chances of progressing past the group stage.

The local Black Stars, losing finalist in the maiden competition endured a bad start to competition in Sudan as they saw South Africa come from a goal down to win 2-1 on Saturday.

Larbi Koomson put Ghana in the lead after 40 minutes when he steered a header past captain Mokhasi in goal for the South Africans.

An improved second half display from South Africa earned them victory in Group B as they succeeded in beating goalkeeper Stephen Adams twice through an equaliser by Zimba Collen Ellex on the hour mark and Shabangu Leonard's winner with six minutes of play remaining.

Ghana would need to rise from the opening setback when they line up against Zimbabwe on Wednesday in the second group game.

The Black Stars are hopeful of qualifying from the group stage in the tournament designed by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) for Africa-based players which opened in Sudan on Friday.

Group winners and runners-up qualify for the quarter-finals.