World Cup Group G Preview

Group G sees three of the bigger nations, where at least one will be left disappointed and with a feeling of failure when they are eliminated at the group stage. Brazil are many people’s selection to win the World Cup, as ever. And for once, they enter the tournament with a solid defence; three players that won the European treble with Inter Milan this past season at the back. Ivory Coast enter the tournament with high expectation but need to play together as a team if they’re to progress. As for Portugal, their Golden generation is gone and this looks like their worst team in a number of years, despite including Cristiano Ronaldo. North Korea enter unknown.

Brazil

The last World Cup ended a streak of three successive finals for Brazil. This time, coach Carlos Dunga has put together a unit and not a collection of individuals as has been the case in the past. For a change they also have a top goalkeeper and a solid defence. Going forward, they remain skilful and a threat to every defence they come up against.

In goal is Inter Milan’s Julio Cesar. A great shot stopper, has been vulnerable to crosses in the past, but he looked comfortable for Inter last season. In front of him are club and country team mates Maicon and Lucio. Two of the best in their position, who both support the attack. The disadvantage of that is getting caught out on the counter attack. But with the likes of Juan and Gilberto Silva in the team, there’s protection against that. Going forward, I’m expecting Robinho to have a great World Cup. A disappointing season with Manchester City saw him loaned back to Santos. The winger has talent and is passionate playing for his country. His blistering pace and trickery will hurt a number of defences in this tournament. Alongside him is the creative Kaka. Sometimes it feels like it’s impossible to stop him, when he’s at his best. Brazil simply do not lose when he’s in the team either. He can open up defences and create chances for the in-form Luis Fabiano, and with his clinical finishing Brazil are a major contender for their sixth World Cup.

North Korea

A tough draw for a nation making only their second World Cup appearance. Back in 1966, they caused a shock against Italy, before racing into a 3-0 lead against Portugal in the quarter final, only to lose 5-3. Think of the in-play betting opportunities this time around! With some of the powerful and skilful attacking players they face in each of their group stage games, it could be a long tournament for Kim Jong-Hun’s men.

Jong Tae-Se is the man who a lot of journalists are claiming to be North Korea’s main hope. The striker has an impressive international record at first sight. But none of his goals have come against major nations, so playing the likes of Brazil, Ivory Coast and Portugal will be a test for him. This nation will be well-organised and hard working I expect, but to get out of this group is asking a lot.

Ivory Coast

A disappointing debut tournament in 2006 saw Ivory Coast eliminated at the group stage. There’s a sense of optimism around once again for this nation as we get closer to the start of the World Cup. Perennial quarter finalist Sven-Goran Eriksson is in charge now, but with little time in the job. Can the former England manager make it past the group stage, despite being distracted by domestic managerial vacancies such as at Liverpool?

Didier Drogba’s broken arm remains a concern, despite the captain and Premier League Golden Boot winner expecting to be ready in time. There’s no doubt he should be their key man this summer. But he needs the support. Salomon Kalou and Gervinho may be able to provide that but there looks like a distinct lack of creativity in their midfield. The defence doesn’t look strong on paper either with Kolo Toure not the player he once was, and goalkeeper Boubacar Barry being a liability. Brazil might be able to run riot on this defence is Sven doesn’t get it right.

Portugal

A struggle through qualification that saw Portugal needing to beat Bosnia and Herzegovina in a playoff match to make the finals. Coach Carlos Queiroz wasn’t the right man for Real Madrid and doesn’t look good enough for international management either. With the Ivory Coast and North Korea in this group there’s a chance of progressing to the knock out stages, but how much faith do you have in their coach?

Nani’s absense is a massive blow believe me. Will Cristiano Ronaldo deliver his magic? Or will he be a frustrated little boy, waiting to cry when he’s team are eliminated? Jose Bosingwa’s injury leaves Paulo Ferreira in at right back. If the referee’s have a good eye and are strict, Portugal’s defence are in trouble. Pepe’s now playing a centre midfield role, and remains dangerous from set pieces. Deco is here to give one last hurrah after a disappointing time with Chelsea. Simao has never impressed me, and one thing Portugal have never had since Eusebio is a goalscoring striker. Can Liedson change all that? I have my doubts.

Value Bets

Brazil to win Group G 4/7
Brazil to win World Cup 9/2
Brazil to finish on 9 points 5/2