"Any team could have advanced from this group, but first place is very important for us," Eguavoen told reporters after the game.

The Super Eagles came from behind to beat Senegal 2-1 and finish the first round as Group D winners.

"It was a good game and Senegal improved exceptionally and gave us a hard time throughout the match," he said. "They deserved to advance for the quarter-finals with us."

Eguavoen dished out praise for substitute striker Nwankwo Kanu who set-up Obafemi Martins for Nigeria's double.

"Kanu was fielded in the right time and he did very well," said the Nigerian boss.

Nigeria will stay in Port Said and host Group C runners-up Tunisia in the second round on Saturday.

"We're very happy to be staying in Port Said with our fans who supported us in the three matches we played. We'll be ready to face Tunisia on Saturday," he said.

Senegal coach Abdoulaye Sarr was also grateful for qualifying: "I thank God for qualifying. We came to qualify and we did."

The Senegalese boss was, however, critical of his side who squandered a one goal lead to lose the game.

"We dominated 80 percent of the game but in football there's another factor which is the last 10 minutes.

"The first goal was an individual mistake and it demoralized the team. We needed to be strong but we weren't," he said.

Senegal will travel to Alexandria to face Group C winners Guinea on Saturday.