‘Zambia will shock Nigeria in Uyo’

Zambian football legend Kalusha Bwalya has said the Chipolopolo will upset Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The former Zambian Football Association president said his country’s loss to Nigeria in the first meeting will have no bearing on the game as the team has since grown in confidence.

“I have always had great respect for the Super Eagles and its array of world-class players but if there is a team that can beat Nigeria in Nigeria its Chipolopolo,” Bwalya told Zambianfootball.co.zm.

“This is a last throw of the dice. It is a must-win match. The team has done exceptionally well. I feel that Zambia has done exceptionally well especially in the last two games against Algeria.

“Last year’s match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium between the two sides and the result is now history and will not have an effect in this Saturday’s game.

“This Saturday game will be a high-pressure match and I feel playing at home, Nigeria will be more under pressure. This can work to Zambia’s advantage.

“The result against Algeria was a big psychological win and Zambia always rises to the occasion, when needed most.

“Notwithstanding, it is important to acknowledge the value of the Nigeria encounter and that it is the most important game Zambia will play in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. A team needs to score a goal in any game and this team has potential goal-scorers.

“The young guns have brought a new dimension to the team. Never has the experience of goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene, Stoppila Sunzu’s marshaling of the defensive line, Enock Mwepu emergence as a midfield brain with the finishing of Patson Daka upfront been required than in this crucial match.

“I expect a solid entertaining match with end to end action. If you look at all the African Groups in this WC FIFA 2018 qualifying series, coming into the last 2 games, each team is fighting for those important valuable points.”