World Cup Group G:-
Brazil
North Korea
Côte d’Ivoire
Portugal
As a neutral, your heart goes out for Côte d’Ivoire. Despite boasting of some of the best talent in African football, it is unlikely that they will progress far in this World Cup. The Elephants have once again been drawn in the Group of Death in a World Cup, just as they were in the 2006 edition. Even if they do progress from the group, in all probability, they will have European champions Spain to contend with in the Round of 16.
Brazil, the reigning Confederations Cup champions, are many people’s favourites to top the group, despite the likely absence of Ronaldinho at this summer’s quadrennial extravaganza. Dunga’s men also have an easy start to their group- they face Korea in Joburg on the 15th.
Portugal’s chances of progressing will largely depend on how they perform against Côte d’Ivoire in their opener. A win for the Seleccao against the Elephants will put them in prime position to qualify. Because Côte d’Ivoire play Brazil before Portugal, Carlos Queiroz’s men will know what they result they need from their final group fixture against the Samba Boys. However given their iffy form in qualifying, Côte d’Ivoire will fancy their chances against the Iberian giants.
North Korea are expected to be cannon fodder for the rest of the teams, but one would do well to remember their exploits of 1966, when they reached the last eight and very nearly upset Portugal before Eusebio rescued the latter. And guess what, the last time Brazil and Portugal were together in a World Cup group was 1966.
Soccer-Blogger.com’s final group predictions:-
Brazil
Portugal
Côte d’Ivoire
North Korea
Group G World Cup 2010 Fixtures List:-
Côte d’Ivoire vs Portugal- June 15
Brazil vs North Korea- June 15
Brazil vs Côte d’Ivoire- June 20
Portugal vs North Korea- June 21
North Korea vs Côte d’Ivoire- June 25
Brazil vs Portugal- June 25
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