Zambia's Henry Banda attemtps to outwit Kenya's Jockins Atudo (left) and James Situma

Zambia got off to a flying start in this year's Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup, defeating hosts Kenya 2-0 in the opening game on Saturday.

Two late goals secured victory for the Chipolopolo at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

The southern Africans dominated the game but had to wait until the 88th minute before China-based James Chamanga broke the deadlock.

Zambia, who are playing at guests in the tournament, doubled their lead two minutes later when Sunzu Stopilla took advantage of a lapse in concentration by the home side to force the ball home.

Kenyan coach Muhiddin Twahir pointed to a loss of concentration by his players as being a reason for the result.

"These are the mistakes that shall need to be corrected ahead of our remaining group matches," Muhiddin said.

"It was definitely a disappointing start but we have to get on top of things if we have to make an impression."

Despite his side's convincing display Zambia's French coach Herve Renard Coach insists they are not favourites for the title.

"It was good winning against Kenya but we must not lose focus ahead of the remaining matches against Ethiopia and Eritrea," Renard said.

The game was watched by Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Zambian President Frederick Chiluba.

The tournament continues on Sunday with Rwanda playing Somalia in Nairobi while Burundi take on Zanzibar.

Defending champions Uganda will play Tanzania Mainland in the match to be staged at the Mumias Sugar Complex in western Kenya.

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