Russia faces Slovenia on Saturday in the first leg of the World Cup 2010 play-offs. Although their opponent is 37 places below them on the Fifa-ranking, Russia coach Guus Hiddink is wary of their opponent’s strength.
“Slovenia have one of the best defences as they conceded only four goals in 10 World Cup qualifiers,” he said. “We must not underestimate our opponents.”
The Russians start their battle for a World Cup ticket at home and travel to Slovenia four days later. Yuri Zhirkov is set to miss the WC play-offs. The Chelsea midfielder suffers from a knee injury.
Slovenia coach Matjaz Kek hopes to field his strongest team in Moscow with second-choice goalkeeper Jasmin Handanovic the only doubt after just coming back from a broken finger.
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