The Liberians were stunned when the 41-year-old striker - who came on as a substitute midway through the second half - netted from a free-kick on 88 minutes.

Bwalya's goal was the only real highlight of a poor match that saw very few chances for either side.

Liberia went closest to breaking the deadlock through Julee Jananon, whose powerful shot hit the crossbar before being safely collected by the Zambian goalkeeper.

Meanwhile in Group Five, Kenya finally kicked off their qualifying campaign with a sensational 3-2 win over Malawi.

Three goals in seven minutes - with two coming from John Baraza - did the damage for Kenya, who were playing their first qualifier since the end of their suspension from international competition.

Bazara's first came on 23 minutes, as he pounced on a throw-in touched on by Dennis Oliech.

Oliech then went from provider to scorer three minutes later, running onto a Tom Juma pass and netting as the Malawi defence simply melted away.

Bazara struck his second on the half-hour mark, with Malawi in total disarray.

The Flames did regroup, however, with Malumbo Mkandawire netting just before half-time.

And a Heston Munthali penalty converted in the 89th minute gave the Kenyans cause to worry, but they held on for three points which puts them above Malawi in Group Five.