Agony for Taribo West and Nigeria (Allsport).

By Jason Hughes, PA Sport, Kobe

Nigeria coach Adegboye Onigbinde spoke of his disappointment after the Super Eagles were shot down by Sweden.

Henrik Larsson's double, one from the spot, condemned Nigeria to defeat in a game they had led through Julius Aghahowa.

Onigbinde said: "It is very disappointing but we tried hard and but I have to face the fact that my team is now out of the competition.

"At the same time, we still have one match to go, and the players will try their hardest against England."

Sweden's joint coach Lars Lagerback praised Celtic striker Larsson for his overall contribution.

He said: "I am really glad for him because as well as being a great goalscorer he also works so very hard for the team, and I was very pleased he scored those two goals.

"Nigeria had good individual skills and were dangerous in attack but had some problems in defence which we were able to take advantage of. We could have scored even more goals so I think we deserved the win.

"Now we must face Argentina. who are a really good side and one of the favourites before the tournament to win the title. At the same time, I think we are good enough to cause them some problems."

Larsson's first goal came from a fantastic breakaway, and he said: "I got a great ball from Ljungberg, I went one way the defender went the other and that gave me the chance to score.

"It was an open game, and I am really pleased. Our morale was high, we created lots of chances and it is a relief to get a win under our belts."

Team-mate Niclas Alexandersson said: "He is definitely up their with the best of them.

"But the best thing about Henrik is that he is such a team player as well. Often with goalscorers they are quite individual, but he works very hard for the team.

"He doesn't mind coming back to defend if that is what is needed - he deserves a lot of credit for that."