Ex-Zambia and Nkana midfielder Jericho Shinde says Chipolopolo must not underrate themselves when they line-up against Algeria, Nigeria and Cameroon in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The final stage of the Russia World Cup qualifying campaign starts in October with Zambia competing against Algeria, Nigeria and Cameroon in Group B.

Shinde said Chipolopolo players must be mentally strong as they chase Zambia’s maiden World Cup qualification.

“Yes it is a group of death but we shouldn’t have mental blocks otherwise we will defeat ourselves. Zambia should not be the underdogs in this group,” Shinde said.

The Russian Tanker believes winning home games will be key if Zambia is to excel in the World Cup qualifiers.

“We should ensure that we collect maximum points in all our home games. Our home ground must be a slaughter house,” he said.

Shinde is also challenging national team players to put in their best.

“Equally the players should learn to put in their best. We can say all these things but what about the commitment from the players.

I hope these boys can come to the party and realise they are carrying the nation’s banner,” he said.

Shinde added:”Let’s galvanize ourselves. With proper team selection and good preparations we can compete.”

Algeria, Nigeria and Cameroon have all qualified to the World Cup before.