Zambia brought an end to what was ultimately an unsuccessful 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 1-1 stalemate against Kenya at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday.
With both teams having already suffered elimination from next years showpiece before kick-off in Ndola, the game lacked real urgency throughout – to be expected in a clash that carried no added pressure of expectation.
The first-half will quickly be forgotten with neither side able to create a chance throughout what was a rather boring opening 45 minute.
Harambee Stars forward Ayub Timbe Masika finally breathed some life into the encounter on 64 minutes, providing an expert finish from a tight angle after Jacob Banda rushed off his line for no particular reason.
Nathan Sinkala squandered a glorious chance to level matters three minutes later, but Chipolopolo would finally get their goal through stalwart Kalaba in the 87th minute.
The TP Mazembe midfielder hammering home a left-footed shot after being set up by second-half substitute Felix Katongo at the back post.
Zambia finish in third place in Group E, Kenya in fourth with Guinea-Bissau advancing to Gabon as group winners despite suffering defeat in Brazzaville.
