A nation of just two million people, Slovenia have already punched above their weight to secure a place at the Soccer World Cup.
When one considers that they knocked out Poland, Czech Republic and, finally, Russia to take their place in South Africa, the achievement becomes near-miraculous.
The road to South Africa
When the preliminary draw was made, most observers envisaged Group 3 being dominated by Czech Republic and Poland. But the favourites melted into the background as the section developed into an enthralling two-way battle between Slovenia and Slovakia.
The Slovenians’ success was based on a defence that was arguably the meanest in the entire European Zone. Slovenia conceded just four times in 10 group matches. The team then came back from a two goal deficit against Russia in the play-offs to book their ticket to South Africa.
Star players
Although his team’s success has been built on collective strength and spirit, arguably the best known player is Cologne striker Milivoje Novakovic, who scored five times during qualifying. Along with goalkeeper Samir Handanovic and captain Robert Koren, a talented attacking midfielder, they are the backbone of the Slovenia team.
The coach
After a moderately successful stint as a club coach, Kek moved on to Football Association of Slovenia in 2006, initially taking charge of the national U-15 and U-16 teams. By January 2007, however, he had been promoted to the position of senior coach, and has since gone on to exceed all expectations by leading his team back to the game’s greatest stage.
Facts
- Despite only gaining independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, Slovenia’s football history is shorter than the majority of their South Africa 2010 rivals. They have, however, qualified for the Soccer World Cup at just the second time of asking. — Fifa