know your enemy: slovenia
HOW HAVE THEY DONE SO FAR?
Matjaz Kek’s men followed a somewhat fortunate 1-0 win over Algeria in their opening fixture with a dramatic 2-2 draw against USA. They led 2-0 against the Americans before crumbling in the second half and only dodged defeat thanks to a dubious disallowed goal.
WHAT RESULT DO THEY NEED?
A draw will be enough to guarantee Slovenia top spot, so it seems unlikely they will throw caution to the wind. That said, if they lose and USA beat Algeria, then they will crash out, so they can’t afford to be too negative.
PREVIOUS meetings
The one and only time England have met Slovenia was in a friendly at Wembley in September, which Fabio Capello’s side won 2-1. Frank Lampard scored from the penalty spot and Jermain Defoe netted the other.
TEAM NEWS
Defender Marko Suler is a major injury doubt with a rib problem but otherwise they have a clean bill of health. Former West Brom player Robert Koren is a goal threat in midfield for Kek’s unfashionable team, who are 33rd in Fifa’s world rankings.