Pre-game: Côte d’Ivoire vs Portugal (15 Jun 2010)

Match Details
Côte d’Ivoire-Portugal, Group G, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, Friday 15 June, 16.00 (local time)

This is a high profile game compared to the previous New Zealand vs Slovakia as both these teams are looking to advance to the next round. This will be a test and a writing of history for both squads as this is the first time they will meet in a World Cup.

Why Portugal would win?

Powered by one of the best players in the World and still a top two (or top three) in the world player, Cristiano Ronaldo is looking to score goals that could put his team on top. Cristiano is brilliant on the field that could provide stability, smoothness, fire and rhythm to his team. He is expected to carry the hopes of his country on his shoulders and this man is not backing down.

Why Côte d’Ivoire would win?

Côte d’Ivoire’s is powered by Didier Drogba whose gritty and herculean strength rubs off on his teammates to play a solid and coordinated team game. Ivory Coast is the best hope for the South African team for winning the World Cup and expect these players to be a bunch of bandits wrecking the opponent apart. FIFA has allowed Didier to play with a protective cast which makes this team complete for a win.

Key Takeaway

Portugal has underachieved in previous competitions but the maturity and field IQ of Cristiano has improved that could just well put these guys over the top. The game is crucial for both of these teams as they belong to one of the strongest groups where any of the team can advance deep into the FIFA World Cup. Expect this game to be tightly fought and contested.

FIFA World Cup Shopping – Ivory Coast

[phpbay]FIFA World Cup Ivory Coast, 5, “”, “”[/phpbay]

FIFA World Cup Shopping – Portugal

[phpbay]FIFA World Cup Portugal, 5, “”, “”[/phpbay]