Slovenia boss Matjaz Kek believes his side will have an advantage when they meet Italy tonight because his players know Serie A very well.
Italy can take a big step towards qualifying for Euro 2012 with a win in Ljubljana, but past results suggest it won't be easy for Cesare Prandelli.
"People who think Italy are no longer a super power in football are wrong," said Kek. "Many Slovenes are convinced that it will be an easy game. That's a mistake.
Slovenia boss Matjaz Kek believes his side will have an advantage when they meet Italy tonight because his players know Serie A very well.
Italy can take a big step towards qualifying for Euro 2012 with a win in Ljubljana, but past results suggest it won't be easy for Cesare Prandelli.
"People who think Italy are no longer a super power in football are wrong," said Kek. "Many Slovenes are convinced that it will be an easy game. That's a mistake.
"We have an advantage. Several of our players are part of Italian clubs. They know our opponents and they speak the language – details that could be important.
"There are no favourites. Slovenia and Italy have the same chance to win."
Among the players with experience of Serie A in Slovenia's squad are Samir Handanovic, Zlatko Dedic, Josip Ilicic [pictured] and Armin Bacinovic.