Eight matches

Pointing to the adjustments, he explained: "In terms of team, when we had to change our shape because we had to go to a flat back four and we've played a back three, not only since I've been in charge in eight matches but years before that, and being able to adapt to a different scenario made me think how far they've come."

With Nwankwo Kanu pulling the strings when he dropped back from forward to midfield, Nigeria, whose rankings slipped more than six places to 23th yesterday, played their best and also created a couple of excellent finishes on goal in the second half, only to be denied by Jamaica's custodian, Tyrone Sawyers.

"The set pieces of Nigeria were very good, that's where they looked most dangerous. I think in open play they kept the ball very well, they didn't work on our goalkeeper but with crosses, corners and free kicks, they were excellent on set pieces and they're big and strong and very aggressive," said Barnes, coach of 64th-ranked Jamaica. "So our goalkeeper, when he was called upon, was very good."

He also had praise for their defensive unit.

"One thing the Jamaican public has to come to grips with is we've all these flair players and we like skilful players who do lots of tricks. Rodolph Austin and Jason Morrison are very hard-working and do lots of unseen work. They're the reason why the Luton Sheltons and Jermaine Johnsons can do what they do because they really cover a lot of ground," he pointed out. "If you check the back four they do a lot of work, so the balance is what's importance to me, our tactical discipline is what pleased me."