ARNHEM, Netherlands, June 22 (Reuters) - Slovenia's heroes were returning home on Thursday having shown Europe they are no pushovers in international soccer.

The team from the tiny alpine state better known for skiing and basketball added a dash of spice to Euro 2000, faring far better than even they dared to hope, despite failing to progress to the knock-out stages.

'The police said we could expect thousands of people to welcome us back this evening,' spokesman Rok Sinkovc said.

The Slovenes exited the tournament after a goalless draw with Norway on Wednesday, but most neutrals were rooting for the side which drew 3-3 with Yugoslavia in a thrilling match and then gave the Spaniards a run for their money before losing 2-1.

Proving they can play football with the best teams in Europe has put the first team, many of whom play in Austria or in the little-known Slovene Premier League, in the shop window.

Looking through the team sheet, the players who impressed most are signed up with little known clubs. Lanky midfielder Miran Pavlin plays for German second division side Karlsruhe, Ales Ceh is at Grazer AK while Slovene team Maribor provides Marino Galic and Amir Karic.

'I hope our players have lots of opportunities to go to big clubs,' said striker Zlatko Zahovic, who, apart from sharing initials with another soccer superstar in Zinedine Zidane, was joint top scorer with three goals until Wednesday.

He has made no secret of the fact he wants to leave Greek champions Olympiakos and his name has been linked with various top teams around Europe.

Srecko Katanec is the youngest coach managing the youngest country in the tournament. Slovenia, with a population of just two million people, gained independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991.

'We've got a lot of experience from this tournament and I'm very satisfied with the game of my boys,' he said, refusing to praise any players in particular. 'We've learned a lot. There are always 'what ifs' in football, but from game to game we've got better.'

Zahovic too was slightly disappointed, although he stressed Slovenia's performance was nothing to be ashamed about. 'We're satisfied with the tournament but we had the impression we could pass through the group,' he said.

In what was a dreary game against the Norwegians, Slovenia defended solidly and had more than their fair share of attempts on goal.

'I thought we were much better,' Zahovic said 'Norway never showed that they would like to play in the quarter-final. They didn't deserve to go through because they didn't play football.'

Injured forward Saso Udovic, who said he 'lost a few pounds' sitting on the bench, agreed. 'I'm disappointed but also proud we've reached this high level of football.'

Katanec said: 'My heart is full because people now believe in us. I wanted to bring people into the stadiums and now it's happened. 'We've moved all of Slovenia and if I'm honest, I didn't really expect so many fans or such a reaction. I'm very surprised and very proud.'