This is likely to be possibly the most one-sided match in this World Cup. Considering Germany scored 4 goals against a reasonably strong Australia, Brazil should try to top that against minnows North Korea. Especially since the eventual qualifying equation could come down to goal difference, in this killer group.

By the time this match starts, the result of the Portugal vs Ivory Coast match will be known, and that should make it clearer for Brazil on how many they want to score.

Brazil is always expected to win in any World Cup, and they are the most successful team and have every record imaginable. In their qualifiers, Brazil put up a fight, but ultimately prevailed to finish on top. Their form has been consistently good since the last World Cup, and they have both the Copa América and the Confederations Cup to prove it.

Ronaldinho and Adriano are not in the Brazil of coach Dunga; however, this is a great team. But under Dunga, the team has become less flamboyant and more circumspect. Led by Kaká and served by the shrewd Robinho, Brazil should be a worrying opponent for any defending team. Winner of the ‘Golden Boot’ at the Confederations Cup, Luis Fabiano is a centre-forward in the classic mould. North Korea should rely on the defense of Ri Kwang-Chon Ri to spend much of their time guarding Fabiano. Kaká, a world-class midfielder, is at the top of his game and his career, and should relish this World Cup opportunity to showcase his skills. A Yong Hak is likely to be the man North Korea will assign to try to keep Kaka in check.

North Korea started their qualifying campaign well winning 5 of the first 7, and then inexplicably went winless in 6 of the next 9. A superior goal difference helped them through at the expense of Saudi Arabia.

North Korea is in only its second World Cup. They should be happy if they managed to manage even a single point in this tough group. That said, North Korea did manage to reach the quarterfinals in 1966, their previous appearance on this stage.

North Korea was very defensive in their approach during the qualifiers. Goalkeeper Ri Myong Guk was very confident and efficient, and the team didn’t give anything away, while he was very physical. Coach Kim Jong-Hun will look to midfielder Yong Hak to absorb the pressure and break Brazil’s rhythm. It is certain that Brazil will dominate in terms of ball possession and create the most chances.

So what is my prediction? Sit down and count the goals…