RIO DE JANEIRO—Brazil faces the Ivory Coast, in the second game for both teams in Group G later on Sunday. With the draw between Ivory Coast and Portugal and Brazil’s victory over North Korea in the first round of games, Brazil has the chance to qualify with a victory today.
But despite the favoritism, the “Seleção” had a poor performance in the match against the fragile Korea, winning 2–1 and the fans expect a tough game against the African team.
Fans Speak
“I think Brazil is falling behind what’s expected in creativity, but they are a disciplined team. I think it will be the hardest game of Group G, because Ivory Coast is defending itself very well,” said Danilo Lavourinha, 24, from Niterói in Brazil.
“It will be a tough game. I think Brazil will win by the difference of just one goal right at the end of the second half,” added his brother, Eduardo, 25.
However, the Brazilian team seems to have a different opinion then its fans, expecting a more lively game with the Ivory Coast attacking, going after the victory.
“It’s a very strong team physically, but I think that will be good for us, the fact that they tied the first game and need the result. It will be a completely different game from the first, when Korea was visibly trying to defend and explore the counter-attacks,” said goalkeeper Julio Cesar on FIFA.com. He wears the No. 1 jersey for Brazil.
While recognizing the traditional strength of the Brazilian team, Ivory Coast promises that it will not step back.
“I have a great respect for Brazil, which is undoubtedly one of the best teams in the world but they do not scare me in any way. This is because I have first level players, which can be compared to those of any team in the world. The key is to have discipline and cohesion. This is how we can beat Brazil,” said Sven-Goran Eriksson, coach of Ivory Coast.
