Colombia, who drew 2-2 with Sweden and also
with Japan, know they have no choice but to win against Nigeria to reach the
last eight. However, Siasia has refused to be distracted beyond the match in
Sao Paulo, saying he would finish with the Colombians before thinking of which
team his side would have to face in the quarter –finals.
Hosts
Brazil, without a goal or a win after two matches, looks the likely candidate
but they must overcome Group A leaders Denmark when both teams clash inside
Salvador’s Arena Fonte Nova on Wednesday evening.
Dangling
forward Sadiq Umar scored once and midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo four times as
Nigeria secured all three points from Japan, and Umar was the match winner as
European champions Sweden were shut out in Manaus on Sunday.
Speaking to
thenff.com in Sao Paulo, Siasia disclosed: "I had to take this decision
because we have qualified for the quarter finals as group leaders, and secondly
I need to rest some of the starters because in the next phase there is a
possibility of going into extra time.
"For
now the boys have done well and I need to make the other players justify why I
selected them for this tournament. This is not a tea party so everyone must
stand up to be counted, and the only way they can be counted is if they play
well against Colombia. Resting some starters does not mean we are under –rating
the opposition."
Coach Siasia
also disclosed that the technical crew is working hard on the defence line, as
the knock –out stages will see stingy defence –lines complemented by vicious
attacking lines.
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