Preview: Portugal – Korea DPR

(GSM) – Portugal have a good chance of reenforcing their candidature for a spot in the round of sixteen but will need a good result against Korea DPR to do so.

The Portuguese drew their opening game 0-0 against Cote d’Ivoire and failed to leave much of an impression in that game. As such, coach Carlos Queiroz’ men will likely be very motivated to do better on Monday and show the world that they truly are one of the favorites.

Star player Cristiano Ronaldo aims to finally end his goal-scoring drought as he has not hit the target for the national team in 16 months. But he has to be careful while trying to do so as he was booked in the opening game and another yellow card will leave him suspended against Brazil.

Korea DPR gave it their all against Brazil in their opening match but ended up losing the encounter 2-1.

Although there is no shame in such a result, the Asians will know that another defeat against Portugal would equal elimination. While a win would of course be ideal, even a draw would keep them alive in this group.

Not a single Korean was yellow-carded against Brazil so there will be no suspension issues to worry about for manager Jong-Hun Kim.

Many will remember the previous time Portugal and Korea DPR met, which was at the 1966 World Cup. The Koreans first took a 0-3 lead but four goals from Eusebio and one from Augusto then led Portugal to a 5-3 victory in this quarter final encounter.

Monday’s game will be played at Cape Town Stadium with kick-off at 13:30 local time. Chilean Pablo Pozo is appointed as referee.