North Korea Will Qualify From Group of Death

December 7th, 2009 | by: Alan | Comments (3)

North Korea’s inclusion in the Group of Death in South Africa is excellent news for those of us supporting the DPRK at the Finals. Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast are all advocates and practitioners of the era’s attacking football philosophy. Watch them come unstuck.

In 1966, in North Korea’s last appearance at the Finals, the prevailing world soccer philosophy was defensive. North Korea showed up with ten attackers and went to the quarter-finals, only to lose to Portugal, after leading 3-0. This time, they come to the Finals with an all-out defense, their own peculiar Asian form of catenaccio. Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast will be drawn out, and the Chollima will strike on the break with a venom that will leave their opponents paralyzed with shock. For those of us who admire and believe in defensive football, it will be vindication.

Jong Tae Se is the North’s secret weapon, their top striker during qualification. On hearing of the draw for South Africa he said, “I want to play against the strongest teams in the world. I am not afraid, I think it’s a great opportunity and a challenge. I will be very ambitious.”

With the North Koreans able to conceal their plans, their opponents will have little clue on what to expect. While Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast will bring their arrogance, North Korea will bring home the results. North Korea. Second round. Bet on it.

www.alanblack.info

Alan Black is the co-author of the upcoming title, The Glorious World Cup, (NAL/Penguin 2010)