Former winners Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Zambia lose at home.
Kessie played for Ivory Coast at the U-17 World Cup in the UAE.
Mohamed Salah scored 15 goals in 31 Serie A games for Roma in 2016-17
Zanzibar was admitted as a full (CAF) member in March.
Saint George beat Vita Club, Ahly win over Wydad.
Holders TP Mazembe draw as Zesco United win at home.
all matches
Uganda's KCCA beat Nigeria's Rivers United.
Beira and Zanaco earn narrow wins
Mahrez announces he wants to leave Leicester City.
DAY 06
Match 16
Malawi vs Zimbabwe 2:1
FACTS
Malawi beat Zimbabwe 2:1 to boost their hopes of a first-ever appearance in the last 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Goals Malawi
Mhango (43'minutes, 58'minutes)
Goal Zimbabwe
Wadi (38'minutes)
Malawi
Zimbabwe