SCOUTING REPORT

Manager

Stefan Tarkovic

Involved with the national set-up since 2013, Tarkovic was dragged in to deal with the damage done by Pavel Hapal in October and has favoured defensive tactics in his five-match reign. Many felt Tarkovic’s appointment a was risky one, with short stints at a number of Slovakian clubs his only real experience of senior management.

Record P 9 W 3 D 4 L 2

All games

Strengths

• Strong defensive foundations

• Dependable midfield

• Low expectations mean they can play with some freedom

Weaknesses

• Lack of firepower in attack

• Unproven manager

• Enter the Euros in poor form

Prospects

There are certainly tougher sections of the draw Slovakia could have landed in but, even so, they have their work cut out to reach the knockout stages.

Inside info

Stano Sokolosky Journalist

Slovakia will once again be led by Marek Hamsik, who at 33 has spent last year with Swedish club IFK Gothenburg. Defender Milan Skriniar could prove crucial and will be full of confidence after lifting a Serie A trophy with Inter. Group E will be a difficult task, but Slovakia feel they can surprise the favourites and reach the knockout stages.