Mali have started their 2014 African Nations Championship campaign with a 2-1 victory over Nigeria in Group A in Cape Town.

Abdoulaye Sissoko gave the Malians the lead after just 18 minutes when he pounced on poor defending from his opponents.

It became 2-0 five minutes into the second half when Adama Traore collected the ball on the left and slammed home past Chigozie Agbim.

However, Nigeria gave themselves a lifeline just minutes later when substitute Gbolahan Salami headed home Rabiu Ali's delivery.

The Super Eagles stepped up their game as the second half progressed, but failed to find the equaliser.