Phiri says draw gives Zambia hope

Coach Patrick Phiri

Ex-Chipolopolo coach Patrick Phiri’s believes Zambia’s 1-1 draw against Cameroon, has given the side impetus to stay in close contention with 2018 World Cup group B leaders Nigeria.

Saturday’s away draw in Limbe put Zambia’s group B qualifying campaign back on track, after losing 2-1 in their opening pool match at home to Nigeria on 9 October in Ndola.

The draw saw Zambia leave the bottom of group B and move one notch up, to third on one point, exchanging places with Algeria who also have one point, after losing 3-1 away to leaders Nigeria, who have the maximum six points.

“All we need to do is chase Nigeria. It is up to Nigeria now to lose top spot,” Phiri said.

“If we give them a good chase, you never know.”

Phiri also praised coach Wedson Nyirenda’s ultra-defensive display that saw Zambia stun the hosts in the 33rd minute when Collins Mbesuma put Chipolopolo ahead against the run of play.

However, Cameron snatched their equaliser from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time, with Vincent Aboubakar converting.

“It was a great match, Zambia have done us proud. Collins, Kennedy Mweene and Rainford Kalaba are all still great players,” Phiri said.

Zambia will now host Algeria in a basement clash during the next round of matches in August next year, in a battle that could see the winner move into second place heading into the penultimate round of matches in September.