Asisat Oshoala scored four times for a dominant Nigeria ©Getty Images

Defending champions Nigeria thrashed Mali 6-0 to open their account at the Africa Women Cup of Nations at the Omnisport Stadium in Limbe in Cameroon.

The Super Falcons are bidding for a tenth continental title and brushed aside a Mali outfit largely thanks to four goals from Asisat Oshoala.

The striker, who plays her club football in England with Arsenal, was the player of the tournament at the 2014 edition of the Championships in Namibia.

Francisca Ordega gave Nigeria a first half lead before Oshoala rounded goalkeeper Goundo Samake to double the advantage.

Francisca Ordega gave Nigeria a first half lead ©Getty Images
Francisca Ordega gave Nigeria a first half lead ©Getty Images

Uchechi Sunday converted a penalty for number three with Oshoala completing her quartet of goals in the most comfortable of victories.

It means the Nigerians top Group B at the eight-team tournament.

Ghana came from behind to beat Kenya 3-1 in the second match in the group in Limbe.

Group A will resume on Tuesday (November 22) with hosts Cameroon aiming for a second win when they meet South Africa.

Zimbabwe and Egypt will clash in the second fixture, with both games at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo in capital city Yaounde.