Zambia Wednesday night lost 1-2 to Kuwait in match aimed at preparing the national soccer team for a crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa on June 8, in Johannesburg.

Zambia, whose hope of qualifying for France '98 is pinned on next week's match against the Bafana Bafana, contributed to their own defeat when in the 54th minute, defender Jones Mwewa scored an own goal.

According to newspaper reports from Kuwait City published here on Thursday, Zambia's lone goal came in the 63rd minute through new-comer to the national squad, Nicholas Makumba, who came in as a substitute.

Kuwait, enjoying home ground advantage increased the tally to 2-1 through Khalib Arck in the 87th minute.

Zambia is scheduled to play Cameroun on Sunday for another preparatory match before it meets South Africa on June 8. PANA