Group G has been tagged the 'Group of Death' and not without reason. If you eliminate North Korea from the equation the simple fact is that three into two doesn't go so either Brazil, Portugal or Ivory Coast will not make it past the group stage.
Enhancing the section's appeal is the three heavyweights' penchant for flair, which can be taken for granted given that Kaka, Didier Drogba and Cristiano Ronaldo, among others, will be parading their genius.
Brazil, the only team to play in every tournament, are favourites to not only come out of their group but to add a sixth World Cup title to their outstanding five but they will not have it all their own way - far from it. Despite having a much meaner defence than was was usually the norm and a host of attacking threats, Dunga's side will know that one small slip-up could mean a Round of 16 match with fellow favourites Spain and a potentially humbling early exit.
Reigning world footballer of the year, Cristiano Ronaldo, will be the star attraction in a Portugal side that currently sits fifth in the FIFA world rankings. Portugal, narrow winners over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the play-offs, have consistently flattered to deceive in previous World Cups and their obvious lack of striking quality could see them heading home early once again if Ronaldo fails to live up to his billing.
The Ivory Coast, led by Chelsea stars Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou, have proven to be a difficult side to play against in recent years. Since their World Cup debut four years ago they have been bolstered by some great young talent and are dark horses to advance from their group and perhaps make it to the quarter-finals.
North Korea are not ranked 84th in the world for no reason and are effectively just making up the numbers.
Who will go through: Brazil, Ivory Coast.