Nigeria vs Zambia clash World Cup qualifier in Uyo, is set to be a David vs Goliath kind of affair. After looking at the strength and experience of both sides it’s easy to conclude.
The super eagles have a solid, strong and experienced side while Zambia is a fusion of rookies and few experienced players almost in the evening of their careers.
The Defence and the forward
The Nigerian defence of Leon Balogun, Shehu, Echiejile and Uche will have to contend with the Zambian forwards. Fashion, Patson and Justin Shonga are proving their youthful run and have the eager for a point.
Let alone Patson, he has the ability to play short and long balls as a lone striker. And he is able to run through channels if well supplied with balls. This will be keypoint for the Chipolopolo!
The Midfield
So this match, to me, will be won and lost in the midfield. It is mostly going to be Ogenyi Onazi, Wilfred Ndidi, Obi Mikel, Victor Moses, Moses Simon against Mwepu Enock, Kondwani Mtonga and or Misheck Chaila. I see Mwepu and company being out witted here.
Kelechi Iheanacho, Odion Ighalo with Victor Moses and Simon or Ahmed Mussa running through the flanks will just be too strong for the Chipolopolo: Because Zambia has the slow defence of Stoppila Sunzu, Ziyo Tembo, Simon Silwimba and Fackson Kapumbu.
The left and right backs are Zambia’s weakest links and am not optimistic that Silwimba and Kapumbu can contain the marauding runs of Victor and the pacey Nigerian midfielders.
Hence if i were Wada i would throw the sink and play an open game as i would have nothing to lose anyway. I would give Nigeria a good run and see the chance to establish the philosophy.
As a nation we have talented players but not a team yet. So we are certainly sending boys to go and do men’s job in Uyo- a Herculean task if you asked me!
Nigeria’s experience creates a greater desire to qualify to the World Cup Russia 2018. This luring benefit is the driving force that pits the hosts way above the visitors on 7th October.
(sorry if I have let down some of my fellow Zambians. I believe patriotism doesn’t mean telling lies).
My prediction, 3-1 to the Super Eagles.