Collins Mbesuma was the hero for Zambia as his strike gave the Chipolopolo a vital 2-1 win over the Harambee stars of Kenya in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier played at Nyayo Stadium this afternoon.

Michael Olunga struck for the hosts in the 16th minute but the lead did not last long. Winston Kalengo levelling the score 8 minutes later.

A recalled Mbesuma hit the winner just before half time to give Zambia a 2-1 lead and send the partizan home crowd into a sudden shock.

The second half begun with Kenya pressing for an equaliser and Michael Olunga came close to getting another goal but his header was cleared off the line.

Paul Were was always a threat for the Kenyans but he was withdrawn late on. Victor Wanyama was kept quiet the entire match and was left frustrated on many occasions clashing with the big frame of Collins Mbesuma.

Zambi held on to see out the match despite a late Kenya onslaught.