World Cup Group G

So here it is, what we have all been waiting for, the 2010 Group of Death. With the no. 1 and no. 3 ranked teams in the world in the group, one can see why. It would have been an even tougher road had this group not seen some key injuries.

World Cup Group

Brazil

Ivory Coast

North Korea

Portugal

Who will win?

Brazil or Portugal

No chance?

North Korea

How they'll finish -

4. North Korea - Little was known about the North Koreans before qualifying, thanks to Kim Jong-Il and his Kim Jong ilk. What we know now is they play very defensively and their coach tried to smuggle an additional striker, disguised as a goalie, on the roster. The North Koreans purposely play stingy defense which something teams do when they know they can't really compete with stronger teams. Get strong goal-tending and defense and hope for a break away goal, just the the U.S. did against England in 1950. We also played like thugs in that game, but don't expect that from North Korea. So, the Chollima will be going home early, just don't try telling that to Kim Jong-Il.

3. Ivory Coast - As recently as three weeks ago I would have said that Ivory Coast and Ghana each had the best chance to become the first African nation to win the World Cup. Injuries have derailed that for both teams. Ghana has lost Michael Eissen for the tournament and now the Ivory Coast will have to deal with superstar Didier Drogba's elbow injury. Drogba may be able to play but even if he does he will be severely limited. The Elephants are going to try and prove they are more than a one man team, but they really aren't. As Drogba goes so goes the team. Their other big issue is at keeper. Boubacar Barry is not very good, but he is the best option they have. If Drogba were fit they would be one of the best teams in the tourney, but he's not, so they're not. Getting to the round of 16 will be a long shot for them.

2. Portugal - In keeping with the theme of teams who want to prove that they are more than one player, let's look at the Portuguese. They are led by Cristiano Ronaldo, who I bet even Dave has heard of. The difference between Portugal and the Ivory Coast is the Portuguese actually have someone to compliment their star. Brazilian-born but newly nationalized player Liedson will be huge help for the team. He will allow Ronaldo to loosen up and play wider, where he is better. Oh, and Portugal is the 3rd ranked team in the world. They should have no trouble getting out of the group, but I think they will get edged out by Brazil for the top spot.

1. Brazil - This ain't your daddy's Selecao. Brazil is known for being high flying and offensive. This team is tough and plays great defense. They are also loaded with stars but they play a total team game. This will also be the last hurrah for their coach, Dunga. He has said he is going to resign after the Cup. He has not been popular because of the style of play he instituted and has been blamed for many problems in Brazil outside of soccer. The fact is though, the Brazilians have lost only one game in two years. They are coming into the cup as the no. 1 team in the world and holding the top spot in the tournament. Their game against Portugal will decide the finishing order of the group, but they should have no trouble getting one of the top two spots.