Zambia took a surprising lead after 18 minutes through a goal from Jacob Mulenga but Zouheir Dhaouadi, one of the few Tunisian players to produce a fine display, secured a share of spoils five minutes before the break.

Gabon, who stunned Cameroon with a 1-0 win earlier in the day, lead Group D with three points.

Zambia caused all sorts of problems for Tunisia's backline in the early stages, with their pacey forwards overcoming opposing defenders in one-on-one situations.

Midfielder Rainford Kalaba could have put the Chipolopolo ahead after nine minutes when he penetrated the gaps in Tunisia's defense to send a low shot that narrowly missed the target.

Zambia's pressure paid off nine minutes later when a recurring defensive blunder allowed James Chamanga to release Mulenga with a through pass.

The FC Utrecht striker's shot was not that powerful but Tunisia keeper Aymen Mathlouthi could not stop it hitting the net.

Tunisia, who notably improved after falling behind, leveled the score on 40 minutes after a fine breakaway effort.

Youssef Msakni made a darting run down the left flank, cut inside and provided a low cross for Zouheir Dhaouadi to fire into an empty net after Zambia keeper failed to handle it.

Tunisia threatened to take the lead when a shot from Msakni struck the post shortly after the restart but Zambia then took control.

Chamanga had a goal ruled out for offside with six minutes remaining before Christopher Katongo wasted a glorious chance to give Zambia a valuable victory.

Mathlouthi parried a powerful Kalaba free-kick into his path but he headed the ball over the bar.

Watch the goals