Nigeria star John Obi Mikel has told Brazilian media that the Super Eagles can surprise pre - tournament favorites Spain and qualify for at least the semi - finals of the Fifa Confederations Cup which begins in Brazil this weekend.<br /><br />''I think favoritism is a strong word. But we are excited about the tournament. <br /><br />''There are many strong countries involved. It will not be easy. We will not say we are favorites, but we will do our best, give 100% as we always do. <br /><br />''If we go with the same performance we had at the African Cup, I think we have good chances to reach at least the semifinals,''Mikel told the website of <i>TV Globo</i>.<br /><br />The Chelsea midfielder has heaped praise on National Team coach Stephen Keshi, who has built a new team since taking over from Samson Siasia.<br /><br />''<span class="notranslate">He is the boss, that's how we call him.</span> <span class="notranslate"> A nice guy to work with, disciplined, outgoing, not afraid to tell you the truth, if you are not playing well he will be the first to tell you.</span> <br /><br />''<span class="notranslate">I am very happy with the way he conducts the selection, players like him very much.</span> <span class="notranslate"> I think Nigeria is getting better with Stephen Keshi in charge,'' said Mikel to the Brazilian media giants.<br /><br />The Super Eagles play their first game of the tournament against Oceania representatives Tahiti next Monday in Belo Horizonte.<br /><br />Photo Credit: National Mirror<br /></span>