Algeria Coach Tells Zambia : Forget Russia 2018, Momentum With Nigeria

Algeria manager Lucas Alcaraz has written off the chances of Zambia qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, insisting that they should channel their energy into qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.

In the race for qualifying in Group B of the African World Cup qualifiers, the Chipolopolo are only three points off the pace heading into their next fixture with leaders Nigeria on October 7, following their shock 1-0 win  over the Desert Warriors on Tuesday night.

''Zambia has a balanced squad with a blend of youngsters but I don’t think they can make it for the World Cup in Russia,'' Alcaraz told reporters, according to Daily Mail Zambia.

''I know it was an interesting result in Cameroon, which gives hope to other teams, but still the momentum is with Nigeria.

''Zambian coach [Wedson Nyirenda] has a good team but I think he should concentrate on building a strong team with the focus on qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.

''I believe the Qatar target is attainable if they can maintain the same performance.''

Zambia have never qualified for the World Cup while their next opponents Nigeria have made five appearances in total.

Igho Kingsley