Euro 2000 Group C - Slovenia v Norway Preview

Slovenia star Zlatko Zahovic has condemned opponents Norway for their ugly tactics as both sides prepare to play for a place in the Euro 2000 quarter finals in Arnhem this afternoon.

Zahovic has written off Norway as "anti-football' for the long ball tactics that were outwitted by a great display from Yugoslavia at the weekend.

Although the defeat still leaves Norway within sight of a place in the last eight they have to overcome a Slovenia side that has showed much more art and promise than the stale and ugly tactics of the Scandinavians.

The lack of creativity running throughout the Norway team leaves them relying on free kicks and corners to get shots at goal but England and Germany have already shown the perils of surrendering possession too easily to more gifted opponents.

Slovenia are in contention to reach the last eight if Yugoslavia beat Spain in Bruges and they can find a win against the Norwegians.

Norway know victory will be enough for them but their negative and ugly tactics have looked out of place at a Euro finals where the better passing of teams has been rewarded with places in the knockout stage.

The physical game of the Norwegians has to be regarded as the more likely winner. It is risk free and relies for success on errors from opponents while creating little for itself.

The danger for the Norwegians is that Slovenia's excellent midfield will get to work on their passing game and create chances for the most talented player in their team - Zahovic.

Slovenia were believed to have only Zahovic to threaten teams when they arrived at Euro 2000 as rank outsiders but coach Srecko Katanec has formed a team pattern that makes the most of their super star striker.

The hard work of Ceh and Novak in midfield allows Karic, Pavlin and Rudonja to work for and around the great touches of Zahovic and they have potential to get goals against the Norwegian defence. Any goals may only be enough for Slovenia to draw but their victory comes in playing the purer football.

Half Time score - 0-0

Full Time score - 1-1

First scorer - Tore Andre Flo

Number of corners - 9