JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP) — Matjaz Kek could see the harsh criticism coming, so he asked the travelling Slovenian media to hold back until he’d had a chance to explain over a few drinks how his squad squandered a chance to secure a spot in the second round of the World Cup with a game to spare.

The Slovenians let a 2-0 halftime lead slip against the United States in their Group C match at Ellis Park yesterday, allowing the Americans to rally for a 2-2 draw.

Slovenia led the group after a 1-0 opening win over Algeria, and a win over the United States would have ensured they advanced to the round of 16 with six points.

A last group match against England awaits — and the only certain way to progress is to avoid a loss.

While Kek’s squad has been one of the surprise teams of the World Cup, the 2 million people in Slovenia have higher expectations.

“There’s too much that wastes our energy and it’s not related to the pitch,” Kek said, directing a statement at the domestic media about criticism of his team. “I hope that your attitude might improve.”

He said more criticism “might not have very positive repercussions”.

“I hope that you take pride in the fact of how Slovenia has performed so far,” said Kek, who was speaking through an interpreter. “Tomorrow (today) you’re welcome to come with us and we’ll have a beer… we’re doing our best.”

Valter Birsa’s stunning strike in the 13th minute and Zlatan Ljubijankic’s goal on the counter in the 42nd gave the Slovenes a seemingly comfortable two-goal cushion. But the Americans scored in the 48th and 82nd minutes against a tiring Slovenian defence to equalise.

And not only did they blow two competition points, the Slovenians were lucky not to concede the match when the Americans had a goal disallowed in the 86th for a contentious foul.

But Kek didn’t criticise the call.

“I will not pass any judgments on refereeing. Decisions made by referees have been (made), but now I’m emotional,” Kek said. “I don’t think the referee had an impact on the final result.”