A late error proved costly as Slovenia only drew with Serbia. Slovenia took the lead through striker Milivoje Novakovic in the 63rd minute and appeared to be headed to victory when Serbia's Nikola Zigic capitalised on poor marking in the box to head home. Following their surpise defeat to Northern Ireland on Friday, Slovenia came into the match hungry for redemption. This showed early on as Slovenia looked more dangerous with the ball.

Slovenia failed to win its opening Euro 2012 qualifiers after being defeated by Northern Ireland. Slovenia squandered a host of chances in the first half with Milivoje Novakovic and Zlatan Ljubijankic posing a potent attacking threat.

The hosts dominated after the break but the visitors netted in a rare attack as Evans turned in Craig Cathcart's low cross at the backpost on 70 minutes.

Maik Taylor saved from Josip Ilicic as Northern Ireland held on for the win.