Zambian head coach expresses confidence in his team's ability to beat Eagles in Uyo next month

ZAMBIA'S head coach Wedson Nyirenda has expressed confidence that his Copper Bullets team popularly known as Chipololopo can beat the Super Eagles when they meet in Uyo on October 7 and qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

Placed in what has been described as the Group of Death, Zambia were drawn alongside Nigeria, Cameroon and Algeria in the Group B World Cup qualification series. Surprisingly, both Cameroon and Algeria are already out of contention, which Zambia emerging second in the group behind Nigeria with two matches to go.

Nigeria tops the group with 10 points, while Zambia are second with seven points following back-to-back victories against Algeria home and away. On October 7, the Copper Bullets face the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo and a victory will see Nigeria qualify for Russia 2018.

Mr Nyirenda and skipper Kennedy Mweene have both expressed confidence the Chipolopolo can beat Nigeria in Uyo to take qualification to the final match of the series. On the last day of qualification, Zambia host Cameroon, while Nigeria will face Algeria in Algiers.

“Now we will focus on Nigeria. They are a good team and will desperately want a win but I have a big team who can pick a win and that’s what I am planning for,” Mr Nyirenda added.

South Africa-based goalkeeper and captain Mweene, added: ”The game against Nigeria is all about preparation. I am confident we can win in Nigeria with adequate preparations, like we had for Algeria.

“It will definitely be tough because it will be a do or die affair, we are three points behind, which we can meet up now. We have a good team who can do it and all the players have shown commitment and dedication."

He pointed out that morale is high in the Zambian camp and that is what gives the team the motivation. Zambia lost 1-2 to Nigeria at home in Ndola when both teams first clashed a year ago in the opening game of the campaign.