BRAZIL

Formation: 4-4-2

TAB Sportsbet: $5.50

The Coach: Dunga

He never held a coaching position before this one, and what a role to take. Early critics seemed fazed and shocked by his appointment but he seems to have won them and the fans over.  He brings a controversial strategy but one that gets results, and for the first time in years, this Brazil side doesn’t rely on one or two players.

The Captain: Lucio

The coach is hero, is that why he’s captain? No, but we’re sure it helps! In all honesty though, Lucio has toughened up of recent times and is a stalwart in Brazil’s defence. He’s become famous for those trademark deep runs from defence for Inter and he’ll be looking to add to his one World Cup winner’s medal.

The X-Factor: Kaka

They say you can only keep a giant sleeping for so long before he goes awakens. Kaka has been on one long nap for Real Madrid and one gets the feeling he can really dominate for Brazil. His pace and dribbling skills will be invaluable; however the only thing is if he doesn’t perform, Dunga won’t be afraid to bench him.

The Flaw: Big Name Form

As mentioned, big name players like Kaka and Robinho haven’t had great season at their respective clubs. They’re lacking a bit of confidence one would think and if they bring club form to the national team, Dunga might have to be courageous and bench one or two of them. We know what those types of decisions can do with the likes of Robinho too.

The Verdict: Semi Finals

For once Brazil comes into the World Cup boasting great form and a team of great players. They don’t rely on a Ronaldo, Rivaldo or Ronaldinho, rather they play as a team. The defence, which in the past has been considered as the weakest part of the team, has strengthened into one to be reckoned with and they have an abundance of attacking weapons on show. Anything less than the semis or even the final would be considered a failure.

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NORTH KOREA

Formation: 3-5-2

TAB Sportsbet: $751

The Coach: Kim Jong-hun

Jong-hun has done a fantastic job with the calibre of players he has had on hand to get North Korea to the finals. Their only other appearance in the Cup saw them reach the quarters, but this time around a single point in the group would be some achievement.

The Captain: Hong Yong-jo

By no means a prolific striker, Yong-jo averages a goal every four games for his national team. He’ll start up front for his side and if he can find the goal at all in the Cup he’ll be happy.

The X-Factor: Jong Tae-se

Undoubtedly the star of the North Korean side, Tae-se will be a whirlwind for defences. His pace and willingness to chase anything and everything down will see him ensure that no defenders have an easy day at work.

The Flaw: Cultural Differences

In the squad itself is a mix of players from the homeland and players from Zainichi Korea who grew up in Japan, live in Japan but have Korean roots. Tensions could arise, especially in this group if they cop some big defeats and if it’s not maintained their could be fierce battles within the team.

The Verdict: Group Stage

It’s hard to see them go further than the first round. In fact, it’s almost harder to see how they will pick up any points in the group. However, the very underdog status they will be carrying ensures they will be no easy-beats.

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PORTUGAL

Formation: 4-3-3

TAB Sportsbet: $21