Prediction: Brazil vs Ivory Coast

June 19th 2010

One of the tournament favourites had a lot of problems against North Korea but they ended up taking the three points that will give them a psychological advantage over Ivory Coast. The Elephants shared spoils with Portugal and they need to try and get something from this match as well.

You didn’t have to be an expert in soccer betting to know that the Koreans would park their bus in front of goal when facing Brazil and the Selecao indeed had big problems breaking their opponents. Carlos Dunga’s side ended up winning the game by the narrowest of margins and even though their performance was far from impressive, Brazil shouldn’t be judged by that game only. With the first points already on the board, the pressure is now off and the players can show everyone what they are really about. Ivory Coast will not be afraid to attack, which will create a lot of space for players like Kaka, Robinho and Fabiano, who, we all know, are lethal when afforded space. As the tournament progresses, Brazil will raise their game and in this match we will definitely see an improvement in their build-up play. Dunga is expected to name the same side that started the Korea game.

On paper, Ivory Coast are one of the strongest sides at the tournament and while Eriksson can count on some excellent players, but there is always a question of turning the squad of excellent individuals into a homogenous unit, which is something the Swede’s predecessors failed to do. The Elephants were largely disappointing during the last few tournaments and I am afraid the new boss didn’t have enough time to make this team his own after taking charge just three months ago. With Drogba not fully fit and unable to commit 100%, the Elephants will continue to be wasteful in front of goal, while the lack of tactical discipline is set to create problems at the back, as you need all your players knowing exactly where to stand and how to act when playing a team like Brazil. Didier Drogba is expected to start but he is unlikely to bring that big an improvement to attack.

Conclusion

Ivory Coast did show some potential against Portugal but this game will be the first real test and I doubt they will pass it with flying colours. We are yet to see the best from Brazil but even their current form should do the trick against the Elephants.

Verdict: Home win Brazil(1)

Best odds: 7/10

Bookmaker: Titan Bet