Katongo scored the goal with only five minutes remaining

Zambia enchanced their chances of reaching the second phase of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Swaziland on Saturday.

The Chipolopolo needed an 85th minute penalty converted by captain Christopher Katongo to win the Group 11 fixture.

The home side could not take advantage of their numerical strength as the visitors were reduced to ten men just before the break.

Defender Sihawu Dlamini's dismissal means Swaziland were forced to play with one man down in the second half yet Zambia could not dominate the game.

The group only contains three teams following Eritrea's qualifying exit because of financial problems.

The result in Chililabombwe means Zambia join Swaziland at the top of the table with four points from three games.

Togo, who have played two matches so far, are at the bottom of the table with three points.

However, all three sides remain in contention to progress from the group.

Zambia can cement their place at the top of the group if they beat Togo when they host the Hawks in the next round of matches in September.