Fifteen months ago ,when the 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifiers started, many would have tipped either Kenya or Zambia as the team to advance to next years showpiece in Gabon.
But, an historic run by Guinea-Bissau leaves both Kenya and Zambia with nothing but pride to play for when they lock horns in Ndola on Sunday.
Already eliminated ,with one win apiece from five fixtures, Chipolopolo, the Harambee Stars and Congo will be using the final round of games to prepare their troops for future tournaments.
“Zambia is going to be tough; I have watched them play and they are a good team - we are also good and improving, so it will be an interesting match,” Kenya head coach Stanley Okumbi is quoted as saying.
“For us, this is another important fixture to be able to gauge where we are in terms of our development. It will also be an opportunity for players to show that they can be part of the set up when we try to achieve our future objectives."
Zambia, who are expected to name a new coach this month, - with George Lwandamina currently doubling up as both the national team and Zesco United boss - have failed to qualify for Afcon for the first time since 2004.
Ironically, the last time Kenya qualified for the showpiece as 12 years ago.
In the reverse fixture a year ago, the 2012 Afcon champions claimed a 2-1 win in Nairobi.
Kick-off at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium is scheduled for 16h30 CAT.
Zambia vs Kenya Preview: Chance for Stars to shine away
The teams are meeting for the 36th time in all tourneys, with Zambia having a better record against Kenya
The teams are meeting for the thirty sixth time in all competitions, with Zambia having a better record against Kenya, after winning 23 times, drawing six times and losing only twice.
It is more of a friendly match rather than an international fixture, considering the two sides have no chance of making it to Gabon after Guinea Bissau snatched the maiden ticket and are on top of the group with unassailable ten points lead.
This encounter bears more meaning for Zambia, as they are still in the running for the 2018 Fifa World Cup. They will use this match to test their preparedness ahead of the third round of Russia 2018 qualifiers where they are scheduled to meet Nigeria on October 3.
Kenya, well, they are rebuilding under new coach Stanley Okumbi as they think further ahead to the 2019 African and 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Okumbi, who led the national team to a goalless draw against Uganda in a friendly played away on Wednesday, is hopeful of a positive result. "We are in a good shape, and that was evident against Uganda, we created chances but our only undoing was not taking them.
"It is what we have worked on and I believe we shall get a win. It is not going to be easy, considering we are playing away, but that does not mean we are not up to the task," Okumbi told Goal.
To be more specific, in Group E, Bissau lead the Group with ten points, Congo and Zambia have six points each with Kenya tailing the group with four points.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Zambia: Winston Kalengo was the tormentor in chief when the two teams met in Nairobi, and he will want to prove that his goal was not a fluke. Collins Mbesumu, just like a good wine, is becoming better with the age, and his composure in front of goal makes him more dangerous. Should be denied space.
Kenya: One player, who is respected in Zambia is Jesse Were, the Zesco United forward wants to carry his club form to the national side and if he gets a starting berth, he will be a threat. David Owino has adapted to the Zambian league fast, and is one of the best defenders there. Will be needed to be at his best to stop the opponents' threat.
PROBABLE LINE -UP: Kenya: Boniface Oluoch (GK), Musa Mohammed, Erick Ouma, Brian Mandela, David Owino, Victor Wanyama (captain), Anthony Akumu, Ayub Timbe, Erick Johanna, Michael Olunga and Jesse Were.
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