Slovenia coach Matjaz Kek was feeling more pride than hurt after his side came tantalisingly close to a first ever European Championship win in their 1-1 draw with much higher-ranked Serbia.
“There are not many of you who believe we can play a high quality game at European Championship level,” he said after a last-gasp equaliser denied Slovenia the win.
“There are a few things that we can improve … but this is one match where Slovenia wasn’t the underdog for one moment. I think we have played a really high quality match.”
Slovenia’s right-back Zan Karnicnik was man of the match, scoring the opening goal after he began a move near his own penalty area before ending it with a shot in Serbia’s box.
Serbia’s Luka Jovic headed the equaliser in stoppage time.
“It’s difficult right now. We were so close. We played very well but just couldn’t manage to hold them off,” Karnicnik said.
“They scored after many long balls, which they are very good at. It was incredible to be on the pitch and enjoy such support from the fans. Now we play England, who are the favourites in this group. We will try our best.”
Slovenia, who also drew with Denmark in their opening game, have two points in Group C prior to their final first round game against England on Tuesday.
“Football can be cruel but I am sure that this team will get its redemption. We played a brave and honest game against a magnificent backdrop, which will go into the legend of Slovenian sport,” added Kek.
“We managed to hold the pace for 95 minutes. We weren’t subdued for a minute … We knew Serbia were dangerous from set pieces. We perhaps lapsed in concentration but I am nevertheless proud of the players for their incredible heart.”
All the focus now was on England, he said.
“They are clear favourites, but so were the Danes and the Serbs. So we need to lift our heads and prepare.”