MAN in thenewsJay-Jay Okocha scored the 1000th goal in the African Nations Cup to add to Joseph Yobo's opener and Osaze Odemwingie's late brace as Nigeria kick-started their tournament with a comprehensive 4-0 win over South Africa in Monastir.

Super Eagles skipper Okocha - the target of renewed transfer speculation at the Reebok - was given a trophy to commemorate the milestone in the tournament which started in 1957.

But this victory could be just as important for Christian Chukwu's side as they look to qualify from the Group D.

After a disappointing defeat by Morocco in their opening game and the subsequent loss of three crucial players - Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro, Portsmouth striker Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Schalke's Victor Agali were sent home for alleged breaches of discipline - it was vital that Nigeria got their campaign back on track.

And they had the perfect start, taking the lead after just four minutes. South Africa goalkeeper Emile Baron flapped terribly at a corner and Everton defender Yobo stabbed the ball past three defenders on the line.

Nigeria doubled their lead following a one-two between Kanu and Okocha in the 63rd minute. The Arsenal striker chased down a long ball and tangled with Aaron Mokoena in the area, before Okocha sent Baron the wrong way from the resulting penalty.

Kanu had strapping put on a knee after coming off and his replacement, Odemwingie, was found by a cross-field ball from Okocha after 81 minutes. The substitute cut inside Jacob Lekgetho and curled an unstoppable shot into the far corner of Baron's net, before adding his second two minutes later.