KOREA DPR vs IVORY COAST >>> Match Preview

FOR PRIDE HONOUR & FALSE HOPES

Korea DPR and Côte d'Ivoire will bring their Group G campaigns to an end hoping for vastly different rewards, with the reclusive Koreans aiming to bid the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ farewell with a pride-inducing win and the Ivorians eyeing a miracle qualification for the knockout stage. Drogba and his Elephants go into this match capable of progressing, but for that to occur they will probably need to better Portugal’s 7-0 triumph over Korea DPR, while requiring Brazil to do them a favour by overcoming the European side. Nine strikes separate Portugal and Côte d'Ivoire in goal-difference terms, so Didier Drogba and Co will be hoping Brazil can help them out by racking up a few efforts of their own. A real mission impossible.

North Korea player to watch: Cha Jong-Hyok.

While North Korea's defence clearly crumbled as they conceded six in the second half against Portugal, the right-back has still been one of his country's standout performers in South Africa. Surging forward at every given opportunity, Cha boasts impressive stamina and no little skill. His service from a wide position is important for North Korea and he is not afraid of shooting from range. Cha is the very model of a modern full-back, including in his propensity to get caught out of position.

Ivory Coast player to watch: Gervinho.

The forward was relegated to the bench for the defeat to Brazil but benefitted from a poor performance from Aruna Dindane and came on after 54 minutes. A threat from an advanced position on the wing, Gervinho can be relied upon to supply some trickery and that may be needed to unlock a five-man North Korea defence.

Key battle: Hong Jong-Jo v Yaya Toure.

Hong is the only North Korean player to ply his trade in Europe, representing Russia's Rostov, and is a key member of a side designed to counter-attack. Though he can play as an advanced forward, his best position sees him drop in behind lone striker Jong Tae-Se and that should put him firmly on Toure's radar. The Barcelona midfielder is a bullish presence in the holding role and will look to restrict Hong's influence on the game. Boasting fine technique, Toure is also instrumental in launching Ivorian attacks.

Prediction

Do not expect a high-scoring game, North Korea will not want to suffer another humiliation. This game will be cagey, and Ivory Coast may be on the receiving end of a shock result.

THE PICKASIAN HANDICAP ODDS

Take KOREA DPR makan +1 1/4 Hcp (Main Bet)

FIXED ODDS

Take a DRAW (Small Fun Bet)

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