Ghana rallied back from a goal down to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1 in the first leg of the two-game international friendly series on Wednesday at the Baba Yara Stadium.

AshantiGold striker Yakubu Mohammed scored in either half to hand the home-based Black Stars a win ahead of the second leg on Friday at the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi.

The Elephants drew first blood after seven minutes when Romeo Zahouor beat goalkeeper Adade Foli in goal for Ghana.

Six minutes later, Yakubu equalised as both sides went into recess with the score at 1-1.

In the 61st minute, Ghana's goal-getter, Yakubu scored his second on the afternoon to round up victory.

Both sides were allowed to make five substitutions as either side used the game to prepare for their up-coming qualifier for next year's CHAN tournament, a competition reserved for only home-based players in Africa.