By MOSES CHIMFWEMBE –
NIGER coach Gernot Rohr says tomorrow’s Morocco 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group F qualifier against the Chipolopolo is a must win for the Menas.
Speaking upon arrival at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport yesterday, Rohr predicated a tough encounter but that Niger needed to beat the Chipolopolo if they are to qualify for the continental championship.
The 22-member Menas squad arrived in the country around 14:45 hours aboard an Ethiopian Airliner via in Ndola and have been accommodated at the Moba Hotel in Kitwe.
Zambia held Niger to a barren draw in Niamey leaving both sides on two points in the group that has leaders Cape Verde on six points followed by Mozambique on five points after three matches played.
“I think a draw is not good enough for both of the teams because it’s only a point that can be earned from that result and so each team will play to win the game knowing that Cape Verde and Mozambique are ahead in the group.
It will be a tough game because both teams will be looking forward to earn points but we shall push for a win,” Rohr said.
Rohr said Zambia were favourites to win the game but that his side was geared to upset the 2012 AFCON champions at Levy Mwanawawsa Stadium.
He said having failed to take advantage of home ground to beat Zambia in Niamey, Niger was eyeing nothing less than a victory.
“When we win this game, we will have good chances to qualify but if we lose, then our bid for qualification will be over. A draw result will also not be favorable for the two teams,” he said.
The Nigerien delegation was received at the airport by Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) committee member Pivoty Simwanza and Football house head of competitions and administration, Julio Chiluba.