2010 World Cup Brazil v North Korea half time report
Brazil 0 North Korea 0
This was not part of the script. Many had expected North Korea to lay down and roll over at the feet of the Brazilians, but they did the exact opposite and are sensationally level pegging with the five-time World Champions at half time.
In truth, Korea are good value for the share of the spoils, as Brazil have dominated possession but have failed to create any major chances.
It was tears before kick-off for North Korea’s Jong Ta-Sea, probably more to do with the emotional occasion rather than the thought of being marked by Champions League winner Lucio, but the tears seemed to be justified as Brazil started the game at a furious pace.
Manchester City fans would have been tuning in to see how Robinho got on this evening following his lacklustre performances at Eastlands, and he was Brazil’s main threat early on.
His movement off the left-wing caused the Koreans all sorts of problems but the on-loan Santos star should have done better with a couple of good opportunities.
Brazil early threat fizzled out however, and as the match wore on the huge underdogs started to settle into the game, with highly-rated striker Jong providing a decent outlet for the Koreans.
Jong has reportedly attracted the attention of some European clubs and he started the half brightly with a twisting run and shot that tested Julio Cesar. He continued to link the play very cleverly throughout the half and the on-looking scouts would have been impressed with his contribution.
The five-time World Champions stepped up the pace towards the end of the half, but a long range shot from Michel Bastos and a tame Kaka effort was the best they could offer.
Brazil have been criticised in their nation media’s for being too conservative and they adhered to that notion as they rarely looked like threatening the well marshalled Korean defence.
They will need to up the pace in the second period, for the North Koreans, more of the same is required.
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