Slovenia coach Katanec complains about referee

Slovenia coach Srecko Katanec said he was satisfied with his team's performance in the 3-1 World Cup defeat by Spain but not with some of the refereeing decisions yesterday.

Moroccan official Mohamed Guezzaz awarded a harsh penalty against Slovenia late in the Group B game which Fernando Hierro converted to snuff out debutants Slovenia's revival.

"There are sometimes situations in this kind of tournament when other decisions might be taken, including those by the referee, not like we've seen it today," he said. "As I have said in the past, Slovenia didn't come here with any great ambitions. We have already achieved a lot by being here... the result of the first match is obviously crucial but we still feel two matches in our legs and we'll see."

Striker Milan Osterc said: "Spain were favourites and we are a small country and it was a big experience for us.

"I was thinking they would play better," he said of Spain. "I think we can win against South Africa and against Paraguay we will see."