Betting Picks

Brazil, Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea are part of what could be seen as the toughest group of South Africa 2010 World Cup. Here are some aspects to consider before making your World Cup picks.

Brazil arrives to South Africa as the favorite in Group G, but any mistake could complicate the first spot in the zone for the “Selecao” taking into consideration the potential of teams like Portugal and the Ivory Coast that can beat any rivals.

The North Korean squad will be the less complicated and will be very hard to see them achieving a victory against any of its rivals, and to get a point or more would certainly be one of the biggest surprises of the 2010 World Cup.

My first choice will be Brazil, taking into account that Brazil and Spain are the two favorites to win the title and despite the criticisms that have been made of the list of players selected by Carlos Dunga; I still think that Brazil has everything needed to reach their sixth world title.

Dunga has been creating a squad with a play less creative but based on the speed and kickback from players like Luis Fabiano and Robinho.

On the other hand, Portugal can base their choices to succeed in the performance of the trio of Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo and Liedson. Nani comes from doing a great season with Manchester United, while Cristiano Ronaldo, star of Real Madrid, hopes to show in South Africa his experience and improvements in the field.

Also, Carlos Queiroz will seek a rematch in this World Cup as a coach of his national team. Let’s remember that Queiroz led South Africa to the 2002 World Cup finals but resigned before the tournament started plus, we cannot forget his failure at Real Madrid with a team full of stars.

I also think Ivory Coast may be one of the most attractive choices, especially with quality players and international experience as Yaya Toure, Didier Zokora or Emmauel Eboue, led by Didier Drogba which I watch as one of the best forwards in the world.

Finally, North Korea comes into this tournament without many options and their aspirations can be among score a goal or add some points against Brazil, Portugal or Ivory Coast, so it is very difficult to think that this Asian team will advance to Round 16.