Zambia make light work of returning Sudan

Zambia profited from James Chamaga's early goal to score a resounding 3-0 win over Sudan in their opening African Nations Cup Group C match on Tuesday.

Fellow forwards Jacob Mulenga and Felix Katongo added goals in the second half at Kumasi's Baba Yara stadium to put Zambia top of the group with Egypt after the defending champions' 4-2 win over Cameroon in the earlier match.

Chamanga, drafted into the starting line-up in place of suspended captain Chris Katongo, took just one minute and 45 seconds to fire Zambia ahead.

The South African-based striker, who netted 10 league goals last month, kept up his form with a volleyed shot after a quick exchange of passes with team mate Dube Phiri.

Mulenga climbed above the Sudan defence to add a second six minutes into the second half. He was first to react after Clive Hachilensa's initial headed effort cannoned back off the crossbar.

Katongo was also quickest off the mark just eight minutes later when Sudan's goalkeeper Mahjoub El Moez could only parry a shot from Rainford Kalaba.

Sudan hit the post after 12 minutes with a powerful long-range effort from Badreldin El Doud but squandered their other opportunities.

It was a disappointing start for the Sudanese, back at the tournament after a 32-year absence.