Slovenia

Slovenia's qualification for the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa is nothing short of a footballing fairytale.

After making it into the play-offs, Slovenia were handed the unenviable task of facing European giants Russia who have a population of 142 million people compared to Slovenia's 2 million. In the first leg, as expected, Russia won 2-1 in Russia with Slovenia's goal coming two minutes from time giving them a vital away goal and in the second leg Zlatko Dedic's goal sent the Slovenian's into the World Cup finals.

Slovenia's team will seem relative unknowns but it is their team spirit and defensive grit that has seen them into the World Cup Finals and they aren't going to be anyone's whipping boys.

Star Man - Robert Koren

The West Bromich Albion playmaker is the star of the show for Slovenia and he will be the man they rely on as they attempt to shock everyone at the World Cup just as they shocked Russia.

Koren's superb ball playing skills mean that he is the link between defence and attack and his versatility could be key if the Slovenians suffer any injuries during the tournament.

After being drawn in the same group as England at the World Cup Koren may well be able to give his teammates the inside track on the English team and help to derail England's World Cup dream.

Coach - Matjaž Kek

A born leader, the former centre back took to management like a duck to water starting with a successful spell as Maribor manager where he won the league twice.

Now in charge of the Slovenian national side he has seen them qualify for the World Cup.

Kek's role in masterminding the Slovenian's victory over Russia in the play-off was nothing short of miraculous. With many of the players playing outside of Slovenia, Kek managed to bring his team together and create a team spirit, which helped bring them through the huge test of facing the international giants of Russia.

One to Watch - Rene Krhin

The 20 year-old Inter Milan midfielder is starting to breakthrough in Serie A this season after joining from Maribor in 2007.

Whilst not playing regularly for Internazionale, Krhin's promise has seen him drafted into the Slovenian side, making his debut as a substitute against England at Wembley. He was also in the squad for their play-off ties with Russia.

His tender age means he may only be used as an impact player at the World Cup but with talent like his he could make a very big impact.

Odds to win - 175/1

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