Slovenia’s return to the international stage at the upcoming tournament marks their first major appearance since the 2010 World Cup. Despite the passage of time, there are striking similarities between their current team and the one that competed a decade ago. Matjaz Kek, who managed Slovenia in South Africa, is now in his second stint as the national team boss, having returned in November 2018.
One notable aspect of Slovenia’s playing style is their adherence to a 4-4-2 formation, which they also employed during the 2010 World Cup. However, it is important to note that none of the players from the 2010 squad remain in the current team. Despite this turnover, Kek has successfully instilled a culture of structure and discipline within his squad.
Speaking about his coaching philosophy, Kek emphasized the importance of giving players freedom while also demanding full responsibility. This approach highlights Slovenia’s commitment to both defensive solidity and attacking prowess. Kek wants his team to be resilient when not in possession but also proactive and creative when they have the ball. This balanced approach has been evident in their recent performances.
The decision to switch to a 4-4-2 formation came after the 2022 Nations League, where Slovenia finished third in a group featuring strong opponents like Sweden, Serbia, and Norway. Initially, they had been experimenting with a back three system. However, the transition to a 4-4-2 proved to be a turning point for Slovenia.
Since implementing the new formation, Slovenia has enjoyed considerable success. In their last 19 games, they have recorded an impressive record of 13 wins, four draws, and only two defeats. They have outscored their opponents 34-16 and kept seven clean sheets during this period. This run of form resulted in 2023 being their most successful calendar year ever in terms of wins (seven out of 10 games) and goals per game (two).
These statistics highlight the effectiveness of Slovenia’s tactical approach under Kek. The 4-4-2 formation has provided them with a solid defensive foundation while also allowing their attacking players to flourish. The team’s ability to maintain a balance between defensive resilience and offensive threat has been a key factor in their recent success.
Looking ahead to the upcoming tournament, Slovenia will be aiming to continue their impressive form and make a mark on the international stage. With Kek at the helm and a well-disciplined team that is comfortable in their tactical setup, they have the potential to cause some surprises and surpass expectations. As they return to the big stage, Slovenia will be eager to showcase their progress and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in international football once again.