Group C – Slovenia Analysis

While much speculation has been done over the match up between the United States and England, one of the Group C underdogs has a good chance to make it to the second round – Slovenia. With their November 2009 win over Russia, Slovenia proved that they have what it takes to compete in the World Cup and are expected to win in their opening match against the home continent players from Algeria. However, with most analysts predicting that England and the United States are firm picks to advance, Slovenia will have to do more than beat the Algerians on June 13th.

Bet365’s current odds for a Slovenian win are 2.20 when compared to the odds of Algeria coming away a winner at 3.25. The odds offered by Bet365.com for the two teams to tie are the same as an Algerian win, making either bet a lucrative choice. Bodog is offering slightly higher odds on Algeria with 3.30 while the Slovenia odds are lower at 2.15. In addition, Bodog is offering lower tie odds at 3.20.

Rounding out the betting availability is BetUS with 3.20 odds on an Algerian win, 2.20 on a Slovenian win and 3.25 on a draw.

Slovenia – Beyond Group C

It will be very difficult for Slovenia to compete with the rest of the playing field beyond Group C. A win over the USA or England is unlikely and Slovenia will have to hope to tie one of the teams and beat Algeria in their opening game. Ladbrokes Sportsbook is currently offering 151.00 odds for Slovenia to take home the trophy for the 2010 World Cup.

Results of Slovenia’s Qualifying Stages:

09/06/08 – Poland – 1:1 – Slovenia
09/10/08 – Slovenia – 2:1 – Slovakia
10/11/08 – Slovenia – 2:0 – Northern Ireland
10/15/08 – Czech Republic – 1:0 – Slovenia
03/28/09 – Slovenia – 0:0 – Czech Republic
04/01/09 – Northern Ireland – 1:0 – Slovenia
08/12/09 – Slovenia – 5:0 – San Marino
09/09/09 – Slovenia – 3:0 – Poland
10/10/09 – Slovakia – 0:2 – Slovenia
10/14/09 – San Marino – 0:3 – Slovenia
11/14/09 – Russia – 2:1 – Slovenia
11/18/09 – Slovenia – 1:0 – Russia

The Slovenian Team

Midfielder and captain Robert Koren is the hopeful star of the Slovenian 2010 World Cup team and will be the most watched player on the team. From the forwards, Slovenia can expect Milivoje Novakovic to drive the offensive production. The coach of Slovenia’s team, Matjaz Kek, will be hoping that Slovenia can carry the momentum that they won during their defeat of Russia in the final qualifying game into their first game of the 2010 World Cup against Algeria.

Slovenia World Cup History

Slovenia’s sole World Cup appearance before 2010 was a lack luster appearance in 2002 that resulted in a round 1 record of 0-0-3. Their other two opportunities to compete in the World Cup as an independent nation were in 1998 and 2006 when they were unable to qualify.

Expekt offers a great selection of odds for the 2010 World Cup