France national team coach, Didier Deschamps, has admitted his team would have crunch time when they face Nigeria in the round of 16 next Monday at the ongoing FIFA 2014 World Cup.
Deschamps made this known to reporters shortly after the team’s 0-0 draw against 10-man Ecuador in their last group game where he made six changes to his starting line-up.
He said the Super Eagles would be a hard nut to crack than their opponents in the group stage, hence the need for his men to fight harder if they must pick the quarter-final ticket.
“My team selection was not by chance and it’s important that all players get into the rhythm. Now we have five days to prepare for our game against Nigeria.
“Some people thought we were the kings of the world after beating Switzerland [5-2] but Ecuador showed they have qualities, and Argentina had a difficult match against Nigeria.
“Nigeria are a strong fast team who have great qualities and it is going to be a really difficult match and we will have to fight.”
Meanwhile, Eagles’ head coach, Stephen Keshi, has noticed defence as the weakest department is his squad, and promised to work on it before confronting the Lesblues.
said: “France are also attack-minded like Argentina. And it’s for this reason that we need to consolidate our defence. I think there is lack of effective coordination in that department but this will be worked on and corrected.
“There is no doubt that we are improving after each game, so we hope to also do well against France and progress to the quarter finals of the competition.”
Nigeria qualified for the round of 16 from Group F after finishing second with 4 points behind Argentina who emerged top with 9 points and will play France for a quarterfinal spot in the city on Brasilia.
