Nigeria face a tricky match in Zambia this weekend when the group phase of 2018 World Cup qualifying kicks off.<br /><br />The Super Eagles will be notable absentees at the African showpiece in Gabon during January and February after losing out to Egypt. <br /><br />So the former Cup of Nations title-holders want to seek redemption by filling one of the five African places at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.<br /><br />Five-time World Cup qualifiers Nigeria appear to have a tough task after being placed with Algeria, Cameroon and Zambia, undoubtedly the &lsquo;group of death&rsquo; among five four-team mini-leagues.<br /><br />Veteran Zambia goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene scoffs at media suggestions that the Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets) are in Group B just to make up the numbers.<br /><br />&ldquo;When the media say you are no-hopers and certain to finish last, that motivates you,&rdquo; he warned Nigeria ahead of a Saturday showdown in central city Ndola.<br /><br />Caretaker Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda rewarded ZESCO United for reaching the CAF Champions League semi-finals against the odds by including seven of their stars.<br /><br />Injuries have ruled out English Premier League pair Isaac Success and Victor Moses, but Manchester City teenage star Kelechi Iheanacho is poised to trouble Mweene.<br /><br />Igho Kingsley <br /><br />Photo Credit : thenff.com <br />