Kanu says Nigeria unprepared

Nigeria's Nwankwo Kanu has concerns for his side

Nigeria v Paraguay
2000 GMT, London

Nigeria's Nwankwo Kanu says his country has a lot of work to do if they are to make a serious challenge at the World Cup.

Speaking before the match against Paraguay at Loftus Road, Kanu said: "We haven't had enough time to prepare but we have to do our best. At this stage it is sometimes frustrating, but we have to keep going and try our best.

"Nobody knows what is going on with our national team. But we have a few friendlies before the World Cup, and we know we have to do our best for our country.

We are not afraid of anybody, and nobody can try to intimidate us

Nwankwo Kanu

Nigeria failed to live up to expectations at the Nations Cup in Mali, and were knocked out of the competition by Senegal in the semi-finals.

The team has been criticised for being complacent and undisciplined, while coaching staff have come under fire for sticking with players who are reaching the end of their careers.

No fear

The new coach, Adegboye Onigbinde has selected a preliminary squad of over 50 players - including some new faces - from which he will selected his World Cup team.

Kanu says there are problems, but is remaining upbeat.

"The World Cup will be difficult, because we have a new trainer and new players. But we can go far in the World Cup - further than we did in France 1998.

"We are not afraid of anybody, and nobody can try to intimidate us."

Nigeria have friendlies against Ireland and Scotland before heading off to Japan and Korea.

The Super Eagles have been given the toughest of draws in the finals against favourites Argentina, England and Sweden.