Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac has admitted his side lack the experience to turn their possession into penetration which resulted in a 3-1 defeat to Ivory Coast on Friday night at the Nations Cup.

The Serbian's starting line-up included six players who were making their Cup debuts and had to start Michael Essien and Asamoah Gyan from the bench due to injuries.

A first half goal from Gervinho and a perfect free-kick from Siaka Tiene midway through the second half before Didier Drogba sealed it with a last minute header.

Asamoah Gyan who was fouled in the Ivorian box, elected himself for the spot-kick and got a consolation for the Black Stars.

After the match, Rajevac insisted his side was better on the night and that the socreline did not reflect proceedings.

''We all saw the match and it would not be unfair if the result was 3-0 for us and the Ivory Coast team is much experienced than our team," Rajevac said at a press conference.

"I think most part of the match we played much better we had better chances but unfortunately it was hard luck Ivory Coast scored.

"Today quality and experience was key to the victory for Ivory Coast. Our next match is for us to be or not to be like it was for Ivory Coast. So we will do our best to prepare the team and win this match."

Rajevac explained his midfield dynamo Michael Essien who excluded from the starting line-up after impressing in the team final training session a day before.

"You know that Essien came two days ago and we was injured same as with Asamoah Gyan. They were not ready to play 90 minutes even to play 45 minutes it was a big risk and that is why they didn't start the match," he said.

"I think we have enough time-three more days-so I hope they will be ready to start the match against Burkina."