Zambia are trailing 1-2 to Group H leaders Algeria at half-time at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.
In the late kick-off, the reigning Africa kings, who are without key players such as Riyad Mahrez, cruised into a comfortable lead.
Ramiz Ghezzal scored in the 18th minute from a Islam Slimani pass.
Seven minutes later, provider turned scorer when the former Leicester City striker Slimani doubles the lead for the visitors.
Thereafter, Zambia’s star striker Patson Daka reduced the arrears from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute.
The Red Bull Salzburg forward scored three minutes after Zambia had made a double substitution.
South Africa-based Nathan Sinkala going off for Rodrick Kabwe whereas Luka Banda paved the way for Lubambo Musonda.
Zambia are bottom of their group with three points, one point behind Botswana who lost 0-1 to Zimbabwe in another match for the group.
The Warriors have eight points while Algeria have 10 points.
Starting line ups:
Zambia: Mwenya Chibwe (1), Adrian Chama (4), Luka Banda (5) Kabaso Chongo 14 (C), Gamphani Lungu 22, Benson Sakala 6, Enock Mwepu 11, Nathan Sinkala 19, Clatous Chama 17, Augustine Mulenga 10, Patson Daka 20
Algeria: Adu-Rais Mbolhi (GK) (C) 23, Hocine Benayada 2, Jean Tahrat 3, Djamel Benlamri 4, Ayoub Adbellaoui 5, Ramiz Ghezzal 7, Baghdad Bounedjah 9, Youcef Belaili 10, Islam Slimani 13, Adlane Guedioura 17, Mehdi Abeid 19