Ghana U23 striker Dauda Mohammed was on target for Esbjerg but his opener was not enough to secure his side the needed points as they succumbed to Sonderjyske on Sunday.
The former Asante Kotoko striker broke the virginity of the game under 6 minutes with a magnificent strike but the home side came back to win 2-1 at the Sydbank Park.
SønderjyskE hit back later through Dovbyk to restore parity in the 78th minute before Cristian Jakobsen converted an 85th minute penalty to seal the points.
Dauda, owned by Belgian side Anderlecht, was making his 10th league appearance for Esbjerg.
The goal is Dauda’s third of the season.