Zambia National team Midfielder Enock Mwepu has congratulated Nigeria for qualifying to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Mwepu who played 90 minutes in Chipolopolo’s 1-0 defeat in Uyo said losing was part of the game.

“As a good sportsman I would like to say congratulations to Nigeria on their qualification for the Russia 2018 World Cup. Go and make Africa proud.

“The trouble with being a good sport is that you have to lose to prove it. Also I’d like to say to everyone that if you can’t accept losing you’ll never be able to win,” Said Mwepu

Mwepu urged Zambian fans to keep rallying behind the team despite the failure to qualify for a maiden World Cup appearance.

“I would like to say sorry to everybody that has been supporting us as we looked to make history. We need your encouragement now more than ever. Losing is part of the game. If you never lose, you are never truly tested, and never forced to grow.

I am extremely disappointed that we didn’t make it to the World Cup. However we can only use this loss as a stepping stone to build an even better squad ready to rise to the challenge of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup. The work starts now.”