Javier Saviola, the Argentinian striker at FC Barcelona, considers Nigeria "a very difficult team and one of the favourites to reach the semi-finals" at the World Cup.
`El Conejo` (the rabbit) as Saviola is fondly known in Argentina, thinks the opening game between Argentina and Nigeria will be a very tough encounter.
"Winning the match will be very important to ensure a ticket for the next round", he told BBC Sport Online in an exclusive interview.
Although Saviola thinks Argentina are one of the favourites to win the World Cup, he knows that the road to the competition`s latter stages will be difficult.
"I think we are in one of the most competitive groups at the tournament",
"Nigeria has very good players like Taribo West and Sunday Oliseh.
"These are players with enough international experience to turn a game around if given the chance", Saviola said.
As Argentina`s coach, Marcelo Bielsa, prunes his World Cup team to the final list of 23, Saviola is
still apprehensive about securing a place in the squad.
"I hope that the quality of my football convinces Bielsa to select me for Japan and Korea", Saviola said
Other opponents
Saviola, who joined Barcelona from River Plate for £15.7 million last July, is not dismissive of England`s chances, despite injuries to David Beckham an Micheal Owen.
He describes England as having "a strong mentality" and are "organised and skilful" enough to make a strong challenge at Korea/Japan.
Javiola admitted to knowing little about Sweden but said they could be the surprise team of the group.
"They are starting the tournament from the position of an underdog, which can be very motivating".
But for the moment, winning the European Champions League with Barcelona is his main focus.
"Winning the Champions League is my number one goal at the moment.
"It`s a very important time of the season for us and I want to concentrate on the games ahead.
