Everything you need to know about Group G.

The best way of breaking down each group is giving what I believe each teams odds are of winning the World Cup. This idea sprang to me when some friends were asking me about which teams I think might win it this year. They asked about Greece, to which I responded, "I would give you 200-1 odds at one dollar that they won't win it." Well, they took that bet, and the idea was born. But without further ado, let's take a look at Group G.


Group G:

Brazil: 4-1 odds

Why they'll win it:

Brazil flies into the World Cup as one of the favorites to take home the title, which is nothing new. This perennial soccer power is drastically different than it's predecessors however. This Brazil is built on defense. Lucio is among the world's best central defenders and anchors a burly back line. Maicon and Dani Alves are the two best right backs in the world, so it's a shame only one can play at a time. Kaka and Robinho are the creative forces and bring all the flair that's needed. Luis Fabiano isn't the flashiest of strikers, but he gets the job done, and Julio Caesar could be the best keeper in the world at the moment. Friendlies have also been encouraging, with wins over England and Ireland.

Why they won't:

Both Kaka and Robinho experienced difficult seasons with new clubs which raises major concerns. The defensive midfield is also very suspect with Felipe Melo in particular having a disastrous season at Juventus. The coach, Dunga, is also a bit of a question. His tactics have created perhaps the most boring Brazil side in two decades. His team selection could be suspect too, as he snubbed two hugely talented players in Ronaldinho and Pato.

Projection:

Brazil was unlucky to draw the "group of death", but they should have no problems advancing. Though they won't dazzle us like years past, this Brazil can grind out results better than any team in the world. This was most evident at last years Confederations Cup which Brazil won. Look for Brazil to once again make a run at the title.





Ivory Coast: 100-1 odds




Why they'll win it:

The Elephants from Cote D'Ivoire are a popular dark horse pick to win it in South Africa and the major reason why is Didier Drogba. The powerful striker may be the best in the world at his position. The rest of the squad is nothing to laugh at either. Yaya Toure has enjoyed a couple good seasons with Barcelona and will anchor the defensive midfield spot, while brother Kolo is the teams leader in defense. One player to watch for a breakout performance is Gervinho, who's been lighting up the French league for years.

Why they won't:

Though a popular darkhorse pick, I don't really see why. Besides Drogba of course, a lot of the team had difficult years at club level and haven't played great in recent matches. This team was favored to win the African Cup in January and underachieved. They got beaten soundly by South Korea recently too. I just can't see this team hanging with the big boys.

Projection:

Though they aren't quite the contender that people think they are, they are a solid team capable of putting a good run of games together. Drogba alone is enough to be afraid of this team and I still see them battling for the second qualification spot in this tough group. Maybe having the Cup hosted on African soil will rally this team into a deep run though.





North Korea: none




Why they'll win it:

North Korea shocked the world back in 1966 when they beat Italy and nearly knocked off Portugal. Could something magical happen again? Nope. The defense on this team is actually really good though. It's not like they're New Zealand or anything, but they have absolutely no shot at winning.

Why they won't:

Have you seen this group? It's loaded. North Korea is the odd man out by far. Their biggest strength is defense, but Brazil, Portugal, and Ivory Coast should be able to negate that with ease. It's unfortunate for the Koreans that they were drawn into such a tough group. They could scare many other sides, but not these three.

Projection:

Unless Kim Jong-il suits up, they won't come anywhere near advancing. Though I've been negative about this team, I still wouldn't be suprised to see them get a good result in one of the three games. That won't stop them from finishing last in this group of death.





Portugal: 25-1 odds





Why they'll win it:

They have a great defense, but let's not kid ourselves, Cristiano Ronaldo is the reason they have a chance. Though Messi has taken his throne as world's best player, C. Ronaldo had an outstanding first year at Real Madrid and will be ready to make his mark on the grand stage. Bruno Alves and Carvalho will handle the defensive duties in central defense. A win over Cameroon signalled that they are ready and prepared to go far.

Why they won't:

Coach, Queiroz is not the most popular of men in Portugal. He's made some interesting choices for the team and his style has not rubbed off well on his team. Cristiano Ronaldo is among the best players in the world, but he somehow hasn't scored a goal for Portugal since 2008. That will need to change. They also recently had a goalless draw against Cape Verde, and Cape Verde is not a very good team at all.

Projection:

This isn't the Portugal of 2006. The expectations are far lower, but they still have a fighting chance because of their talisman Ronaldo. They will battle for second with Ivory Coast, and likely advance to the knockouts. Don't expect too far of a run for the Portuguese though.