2018 World Cup qualifiers: Group B permutations

2018 World Cup qualifiers: Group B permutations
Iheanacho goes for goal vs Algeria

by Graeme Jackson

Tuesday Nov 07, 2017. 11:30

We look at who needs what to secure qualification for the 2018 World Cup ahead of this weekend’s round of matches. Today’s focus is on Group B: Nigeria, Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.

Group B fixtures

Friday 10 November
Algeria v Nigeria - Stade Mohamed Hamlaoui, Constantine - 21h30 CAT

Saturday 11 November
Zambia v Cameroon - Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Ndola - 15h00 CAT

Who needs what to qualify?

Well, Nigeria are already safely through to Russia 2018, having secured qualification in the last round of matches back in October. The Super Eagles will finish top of the group regardless of their result against Algeria (who will finish bottom even if they claim a first win).

The other match is a battle for second place between Zambia and Cameroon, with the former holding a one-point lead over the latter ahead of their clash in Ndola on Saturday.

What’s likely to happen?

Nigeria would love to end off their campaign in style, but with a match against Argentina just four days later and several key players missing or doubtful due to injury (such as Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo), Gernot Rohr’s side may just take their foot off the pedal against an Algeria outfit looking to impress new coach Rabah Madjer.

As for the game in Ndola, it could be the last in charge of the Indomitable Lions for coach Hugo Broos. He may have guided the team to Africa Cup of Nations glory in early 2017, but their World Cup qualification failure means he is unlikely to be offered an extension to his contract, which runs out in February next year.





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