Zambia FA optimistic of World Cup qualification

The Zambia Football Association is optimistic of qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil despite Sudan's setback at the weekend.

The 2012 African champions were held to a 1-1 draw by the Nile Crocodiles, a result which now leaves them second in Group D ahead of their final qualifier against Ghana in September.

Ghana now needs only a draw to qualify for the playoffs when they host the Chipolopolo in September.

But spokesperson of the Zambia Football Association Eric Mwansa has exclusively told Joy sports they can still come to Ghana and win to finish leaders.

"We begin to plan and prepare for that game because as far we are concerned that will decide which team will take top spot in Group D," said Mwansa.

"Our target was to go into the match and take all three points against Sudan and continue to lead the group till our final decider against Ghana in September.

"We did the best we could and football is like that but our setback against Sudan does not decide the group in any way it leaves the match in September the decider."

Ghana's 2-0 win over Lesotho takes the Black Stars to the top of Group D with 12 points, a point ahead of Zambia.