North Korea team for 2010 FIFA world cup:
North Korea is the first Asian team that reached quarter-finals. North Korean people may not watch FIFA world cup due to absence of world cup broadcasting in that country. North Korea qualified for FIFA world cup after 44 years.
Coach: Kim Jong-Hun
Captain: Hong Yong-Jo
FIFA Ranking: 105 (Lowest ranked team in world cup)
Squad rating: 5/10
World cup history: It participated for first time in 1966 world cup and reached quarterfinals. It created sensation by defeating Italy in league stage. North Koreans lost to Portugal (5-3) in quarterfinals despite leading in first half (3-0). Eusebio of Portugal thrashed Koreans in second half by scoring 4 goals. This is the second cup for this unpredictable and unknown nation.
But, Republic of Korea participated in 1954 world cup but lost both matches in league stages. Turkey defeated Korea Republic by 7-0 while Hungary defeated them by 9-0 in 1954 FIFA world cup.
Group G: North Korea, Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast
Strength: Strong defence and exceptional patriotism. They fight like soldiers on football ground.
Prediction: Most unknown team with best spirit and passion. Unfortunately, North Korea is in toughest group. No chance for second round but may change fortunes of Portugal and Ivory Coast. Team is practicing for last 5 months.
2010 World cup Squad:
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Goalkeepers: |
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Defenders: |
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Midfielders: |
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1. Ahn Yong-hak |
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Forwards: |
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1. Jong Tae Se (Asian Rooney) |
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Qualification: It qualified for world cup by defeating strong teams like Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Warm-up games:
1. May 15: Lost to Paraguay (0-1)
2. May 28: Drew with Greece (2-2). Good result.
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Schedule of North Korea matches:
1. June 25: Vs Brazil (6:30 PM GMT)
2. June 21: Vs Portugal (11:30 AM GMT)
3. June 25: Vs Ivory Coast (2:00 PM GMT)
Final verdict: North Korea has no hopes of reaching second round as it is in Group of Death. Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast are favourites. But, it can take inspiration from its 1966 world cup performance. South Korea also reached semi-finals despite being in strong group in 2002 world cup.
