Former Super Eagles assistant coach, Fatai Amoo has dismissed as mere mind game the antics by the Zambians to halt Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia.
Super Eagles will host their Zambian counterparts, Chipolopolo in Saturday’s Group B World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The West Africans lead the pack in the group on 10 points while the Southern Africans are the hottest challengers on seven with a game left to end the qualification series.
Amoo said though Zambia’s World Cup hopes received a huge boost no thanks to the back-to-back win against Algeria the Nigerians have the edge to cement and seal their World Cup ticket at the expense of the Southern Africans.
“I think the ratio is 60/40 for Nigeria against Zambia going into the crucial World Cup qualifier on Saturday in Uyo.
“Zambia played two-legged clash against Algeria and were able to garner six points which actually revived and boosted their morale.
“On our part, we won and drew against Cameroon which is equally good for our morale and chances.
“Zambia are merely cashing in on the momentum of the wins against Algeria to assert unnecessary pressure on us.
“I consider the undue pressure and avowal talk to halt our dreamed qualification for the World Cup as a mere mind game.
“It’s permitted in football but I do not think their outburst and plot will cause any damage to our chances.
“We have experienced and mature players in our midst to perfectly handle the untoward pressure.
“Majority of our present crop of players except for the captain, John Mikel Obi, Elderson Echiejile and few others have not been to the World Cup.
“Opportunity is right there on their laps to make the lifetime dream a reality and grab the golden and rare chance.
“The opportunity is even sweeter as we are playing at home and right there on a familiar turf in Uyo.
“A win for Eagles they will be home and dry as far as qualification for the World Cup is concerned and will not be bordering their heads with the last match against the North African side, Algeria.
“The Eagles that overpowered the Cameroonians looked quite solid to beat the Zambians hands down.
“Zambia has fast attackers but we will certainly run down their not-too-strong defense.
“The clash will be tough because of the high stake but I’m confident that we will emerge winners at the end of the day.
“I’m fervently praying and wishing the team well in their toughest challenge,” said the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) coach to reporters.
Zambia is known to be finalizing their preparation for the showdown in Uyo at the nation’s neighbours, Ghana. A win for Nigeria will automatically secure for them the 2018 Fifa World Cup ticket making the last game against Algeria a mere academic exercise.
