Stephen Keshi: We have to win against Spain

The Super Eagles trainer says he’s learnt a lot about his squad at the Confederations Cup and that to stay in the competition they need to defeat the world champions on Sunday

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi says that the only option left for his team to qualify for the semi final of the Confederations Cup is to beat world and European champions Spain in Sunday’s last Group B game.

The Super Eagles need a win if they are to make it ahead of Uruguay who play against Tahiti in the group’s other match.

The former Nigeria defender also praised the quality of the competition thus far.

"So far the tournament is good, we've seen some very entertaining matches. There are some fantastic teams here like Uruguay, Spain, Brazil, so the level is very good," Keshi said at pre-match press conference.

Having won their first game against Tahiti 6-1 and then lost to Uruguay 2-1, the Nigerian team’s strengths and foibles have been exposed.

"In this tournament, I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly of my team," he said.

"We have a very tough game here tomorrow against Spain but we have to win. There's no doubt about that."

On similarities between Brazil and Nigeria, Keshi said: "Brazil and Nigeria are very similar, yes. Nigeria is a happy country of people, we love dancing. So does Brazil. [On the pitch], we play attractive football.

"Today we'll see everyone talk about Spain's team, but we also have some very good players."

The game comes up at 8pm (WAT) on Sunday.