<
>

Vladimir Weiss confident Slovakia can beat England to finish top of Group B

Slovakia are more than capable of handing England the first defeat of their Euro 2016 campaign and finishing top of Group B, according to Vladimir Weiss.

England take on Slovakia in Saint-Etienne on Monday knowing a win would guarantee their passage through to the last 16 as group winners, while even a draw could be enough if Wales fail to beat Russia in Toulouse.

But Slovakia are in confident mood, having overcome the pain of an agonising defeat to Wales by beating Russia 2-1 in their second match, and former Manchester City winger Weiss -- who scored his country's opening goal in that victory -- insists England's path to three points will not be easy.

"We have beaten big teams before and if we play at our best, we can beat anyone, even England," Weiss told Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy in an interview. "The win against Russia gives us a lot of confidence going into the last game.

"We needed a win and we're very happy that we got it. I am sure England have seen our game against Russia and they know we will give it everything to get something from the final game to qualify.

"There are no weaknesses at this level, but I am sure I will make life difficult for the English defence. England has a good young generation. But we have great players and are a great team. We fight together and that is why we are successful."

Weiss, who now plays in Qatar for Al Gharafa, also revealed he was impressed by Raheem Sterling's performance in England's opening game against Russia, despite the 21-year-old enduring widespread criticism for his form at the tournament so far.

"Raheem Sterling is a great young talent, who can cause a lot of damage to every team," Weiss added. "I don't think he has found his best form yet at Manchester City, but he has been great for England against Russia.

"I honestly don't care who I play against. I respect every player that is here the same. Whether it is Bale, Ronaldo or anyone. I'm trying to be focused on myself and my team. England has a squad full of good players, a team that can go all the way. We have respect, but we don't fear them."