Abidal warns Spain

France defender Eric Abidal is confident they can overcome Spain.

The two European foes will lock horns on Tuesday for a place in the last eight and Abidal is hopeful for his side's chances.

Abidal, who missed the win over Togo through suspension, is expected to come straight back into the side in place of Mikael Silvestre.

The Lyon defender has been impressed by Spain, but he is determined to end their hopes on Tuesday.

"The Spaniards did a superior first part of the World Cup than us," said Abidal.

"They have a team that plays good football, they are different than Germany and England.

"But we don't look around. For them too, the most difficult part is to come.

"I don't care about the player I have in front of me. To me, it is war. Not in the proper sense, but when I come onto the pitch, I win and he dies."

Abidal has tipped Zinedine Zidane to be the difference between the two sides when they meet in Hannover.

"Indeed the Spaniards are young, but we have experience and technique," added Abidal.

"We have players able to make the difference at any moment.

"He only relishes high-level games and is frustrated he didn't play in the last game - just like me.

"We want to go forward in this competition and he's a born winner."