At all World Cup playoffs, there is usually a group all want to refer to as the “Group of Death” where they face the toughest challenge to qualify. In the 2010 South Africa tournament, this would probably be the Group G consisting of no less than Brazil, Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea.

When we take a look at the managers reactions however, they all point out this group is a fantastic opportunity and that all groups are very tough. Brazil coach Dunga comments;

“I don’t like all that ‘Group of Death’ stuff. If you look at the draw, you’ll see that all the groups, perhaps with the exception of Spain’s, are very even.”

As always the first game is tricky and Brazil face the rather unknown North Korean team in a game they are expected to win. Bodog Sportsbook offer 1.62 (8/13) in odds for Brazil to win the group, and they also offer many interesting bets on all outcomes in the World Cup.

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Ivory Coast vs Portugal, 15th June 2010

Portugal has a talented team with some of the best players in the world, but they don’t always live up to expectations. They are facing a tough challenge against African top team Ivory Coast in the first game. Carlos Queiroz, coach on the Portuguese team, looks positive on the group challenges and is also pointing out the fact that many players from the same league teams will face each other, not only Kaka and Ronaldo from Real Madrid.

“I’m pleased. It’s a fantastic group for world football. And we’ve got North Korea too, a team that triggers good memories of the 1966 World Cup (when Portugal came back from three goals down to beat Korea DPR 5-3 in the quarter-finals).“ comments Carlos Queiroz.

We think a draw is a likely result in this tough first game and for this you get 3.25 (9/4) at Bet365. They offer some of the best selections for World Cup betting and you can now sign up below for a €100 bonus as a new customer.

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