The English FA has not sent a scout to Mali after the heart scare suffered by Tord Grip, who had planned to be here. But Sven-Goran Eriksson is unlikely to suffer palpitations when he watches the video of this 1-0 win by Nigeria, a team the England coach must prepare to face at the World Cup in June.

The Super Eagles should have won their opening Pool A match with Algeria more comfortably than this, the more so after the introduction of Nwankwo Kanu livened an attack which had faded after a bright start. Yet Nigeria's performance was far from terrifying and they looked shaky in defence, particularly in wide areas, allowing Algeria several chances to score.

Had Kanu's finishing matched his approach work he would have had a hat-trick, but such problems are familiar to Arsenal fans. The more likely source of worry looks likely to be Jay-Jay Okocha, who showed flashes of his skill and passing talent.

Auxerre's Tijjani Babangida, a pacy if erratic substitute, could also exploit England's weaknesses on the left. Julius Aghahowa, who scored just before half-time, also had lively moments on Nigeria's right.

Most encouraging for England was the vulnerability of the Nigeria defence. The full backs, Joseph Yobo and Ifeanyi Udeze, chosen ahead of Celestine Babayaro, looked uncertain. With sharper finishing Algeria, who did not qualify for the World Cup, would have escaped with a draw.

On this evidence Eriksson would do well to instruct his players to put early balls behind the full backs for David Beckham and whoever operates on the left, possibly Kieron Dyer. The teams meet in Osaka on June 12th for their final group match.