Shock qualifiers Algeria, Slovenia dare not lose

Shock World Cup qualifiers Algeria and Slovenia clash in today's early kick-off in Polokwane in a Group C match neither team dare lose.

Pundits make England and the United States favourites to move into the knock-out phase. Slovenia are given virtually no chance of avoiding the first round cut while Algeria have been dismissed beyond their borders as a country making up the numbers in the 32-team tournament.

It is an ironic situation given that both nations made it to South Africa via play-off victories over opponents occupying top-20 positions in the FIFA rankings.

Slovenia eliminated Russia on away goals after winning 1-0 at home through a Zlatko Dedic goal following a 2-1 away loss in a play-off between teams who finished runners-up in their group.

And Algeria returned to the World Cup finals after a 24-year absence by edging record six-time African champions Egypt 1-0.

France-based midfielder Yazid Mansouri led his countrymen through the 13-match qualifying campaign, but will not shake hands with Slovenia captain Robert Koren today.

Veteran Mansouri has been omitted by coach Rabah Saadane with Hassan Yebda from Portsmouth taking his place owing to superior form.

Slovenia share the sentiment that they are fighting to finish runners-up.

"England are a very strong team and we want to be second. We will leave first position for England," said defender Matej Mavric from German lower division club Coblenz.

Slovenia, making a second World Cup appearance after losing to Spain, Paraguay and South Africa in South Korea eight years ago, appear likelier winners.

Key To Match

Karim Ziani vs Robert Koren
Given the win-or-bust nature of the game, it is certain to be cautious with a moment of magic from either team capable of settling who takes the three points.

Ziani is the best Algerian bet with his creativity on the right side of midfield while Koren organises Slovenia from a central position.