Not much in terms of travel for both teams with the Slovenians facing the Algerians in nearby Polokwane. By now both teams should have adjusted better to the Jabulani.
The Slovenians as demonstrated against Russia and England (in a September friendly) are a team that can soak up quite a lot of pressure. They are quick and creative on the counterattack with Robert Koren, Andraz Kirm, and Necj Pecnic leading the way, relying on short quick passes.
A majority of attacks emanate from both wings with crosses/passes peppered into the box for the quick footed Milivoje Novakovic and Zlatko Dedic.
Of the 20 goals scored in the qualifiers, 19 came from strikers and midfielders, none from set pieces. They graft goals relying less on open field shots or set pieces.
The Slovenians also have a solid defense which gave up just six goals in the 12 matches with Samir Handanovic making some spectacular saves. The USA will have to make an adjustment to the more compact Slovenian style taking advantage of the faster ball speed.