Match Preview Nigeria Vs Zambia : Super Eagles Seeking Redemption For AFCON Miss

Nigeria face a tricky match in Zambia this weekend when the group phase of 2018 World Cup qualifying kicks off.

The Super Eagles will be notable absentees at the African showpiece in Gabon during January and February after losing out to Egypt.

So the former Cup of Nations title-holders want to seek redemption by filling one of the five African places at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Five-time World Cup qualifiers Nigeria appear to have a tough task after being placed with Algeria, Cameroon and Zambia, undoubtedly the ‘group of death’ among five four-team mini-leagues.

Veteran Zambia goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene scoffs at media suggestions that the Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets) are in Group B just to make up the numbers.

“When the media say you are no-hopers and certain to finish last, that motivates you,” he warned Nigeria ahead of a Saturday showdown in central city Ndola.

Caretaker Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda rewarded ZESCO United for reaching the CAF Champions League semi-finals against the odds by including seven of their stars.

Injuries have ruled out English Premier League pair Isaac Success and Victor Moses, but Manchester City teenage star Kelechi Iheanacho is poised to trouble Mweene.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : thenff.com