Slovenia will not be far away from qualifying for the last 16 at the World Cup and it all boils down to the way their fixtures are structured.
It will be the country’s second time competing in the World Cup finals since the national team’s formation in 1992, having split from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Finishing second in their group of the European qualifying section for the 2010 World Cup was no mean feat. Czech Republic and Poland both missed out on qualification while Slovakia topped the group, two points ahead of Slovenia. Qualification was secured through the away goals rule after a 2-2 draw on aggregate with Russia in the playoffs.
Massive outsiders for honours Slovenia will take heart from the fact that they face Algeria in their opening match – a side which Slovenians will see as winnable.
Slovenia have yet to actually win a match at the World Cup, having previously lost all three matches in the South Korea/Japan finals. However, it will be a shame if they do not come home with a result against Algeria, a close fight with USA and a pride performance against England.
Star Player: Robert Koren
Robert Koren is the only England-based player in the Slovenia squad for the World Cup and realistically, is one of just a handful who has experience of regular football with a half-decent club.
Koren worked his way up through small clubs in his home country before moving to Norwegian side Lillestrøm and then on to his current club West Brom.
Slovenia captain Robert Koren
The 29-year-old midfielder was given the captaincy prior to the qualifiers and has led by example on the field. Four goals in 45 international appearances with a resolute style of play makes Koren the star attraction of a Slovenian side which will not wane unless faced by highly superior opposition.
Manager: Matjaž Kek
Kek has been known for his strong leadership qualities both on and off the field. As a player he won three Slovenian league titles and operated as a central defender.
The 48-year-old has managed the national side since 2007 and delivering them to the World Cup in South Africa has been a dream come true for the European football minnows.
Prediction: Group stage exit
Narrowly, very narrowly. They should take care of Algeria but will fall short against an improved USA team. England will kick their bucket big-time and send them packing.
Odds: 300/1
Irishness rating: 5/10
Irish comparisions with Slovenia are few but we have discovered that the Irish wolfhound is one of the most popular breeding dogs in the country. They are also a Republic just like us. A nation with a still relatively fresh independence can play with more gusto than others on the big stage.
If they were a car they’d be…
Toyota Yaris – Small and technically good but won’t compete with the big boys.
