The Zambian national team have started their preparations for the crucial World Cup qualifier against Nigeria at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium next weekend.

The Copper Bullets manager Wedson Nyirenda ran the rule over 21 players in the team's first workout held at Nkoloma Stadium on Monday afternoon, with Zesco United players excused because of their upcoming Barclays Cup quarterfinal clash against Kitwe United.

Nyirenda has urged the invited players to be mentally prepared to face the Super Eagles, as the game will be highly psychological.

He told Fazfootball.com : ''This game will be highly psychological, therefore we are working on their mental strength before the match.

''Every player and everyone on our bench know and believe that this time is our time. God can only show you the fish and it up to you to fish it out.

''Looking at the way we worked against Algeria home and away it tells a lot of stories. The boys now know and believe it can be done.

''Nigeria is a different team we are not going to be big headed because we beat Algeria we are focussed on looking at Nigeria only.''

The invited foreign-based professionals are expected to arrive in camp on Sunday, October 1.

Igho Kingsley