Zambia Talk Tough: Nigeria Will Be Beaten

Zambia began training for next month’s World Cup qualifier against Nigeria with several players bullish they will get past the Super Eagles in Ndola.


The Chipolopolo welcome the three-time African champions on October 9.

The home-based players have started preparations for the big match while expressing confidence they will win in front of their fans.

Goalkeeper Jacon Banda, whose heroics saw Zesco United reach the semi-final of this year’s CAF Champions League, said with the right preparations Zambia will soar past the Eagles.

“The morale is very high and the team is focused on the Nigeria game,” Banda said.

“It is a very crucial game and I believe we have a team to overcome Nigeria.

“What matters will be our preparations, if we prepared well, then nothing will be difficult for us.”

Zanaco midfielder Roderick Kabwe said team spirit is high and they will be ready for the Nigerian challenge.

“So far, so good we are preparing well for the game against Nigeria. The morale is high and the players are all very focused on the game,” he assured.

“We will be very ready for Nigeria next week.”

He added that the bulk of the squad have worked with coach Wedson Nyirenda and that will go a long way in helping the Chipolopolo get off to a winning start in front of their own fans.

“Some of us have been with the coach from Under-17 and we know him and he knows us, so all we need to do is follow his instructions,” he revealed.

Both countries last clashed in a group match at AFCON 2013 in South Africa, which ended in a goalless draw in Nelspruit.