2018 World Cup: Nigeria, Zambia hopes of qualifying down to goal difference, head-to-head

Nigeria is still in pole position to qualify for the 2018 World Cup despite Zambia’s shock 1-0 victory in Algeria on Tuesday.


The result, however, keeps Chipolopolo in the race to be in Russia, with Cameroon and Algeria out of the running.

Zambia have seven points, three behind Nigeria, who also have a superior goals difference of 5.

The two teams will square off in what would be a potentially decisive affair in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

A straight win, will see Gernot Rohr’s men qualify with one game left. While a draw, could still leave room for Zambia to clinch the ticket, especially as they host Cameroon in the last round of qualifying games.

Former Media Officer of the Super Eagles, Colin Udoh, has now explained CAF’s priority on how they will sort out that situation, especially if the Eagles lose and Chipolpolo close up the goals difference.

He tweeted: “FT: Algeria 0-1 Zambia. Algeria officially out of the World Cup. Zambia need to win in Uyo in October.”

Responding to an inquiry, Udoh stated: “It’s GD, not head to head,” adding that “It’s goals difference first”.