This paper reports a novel type of nanohybrid, mesoporous carbon anchored with SnS2 nanosheets (MC-SnS2 NSs), which integrates the structural characteristics of both two-dimensional (2D) nanosheet and 3D porous carbon matrix. When evaluated as an anode for lithium-ion batteries, the MC-SnS2 NSs exhibits significantly enhanced cycling stability and rate capability by virtue of its unique structural superiority. (c) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.