Brazil vs. North Korea, World Cup 2010: The Leader Accepts Your First Half Commitment, Teams Drawn 0-0

For the eighth time in 14 matches this tournament, a game has gone scoreless through 45 minutes, though when the two teams are North Korea and Brazil, the 0-0 is more remarkable than part of a pattern.

North Korea has played their five man back line to perfection, keeping the Brazilians at distance throughout the first half, with the Selecão failing to threaten for a goal. The few times Brazil established possession in the penalty area led to weak shots, with North Korea marking each attacker making runs into the area.

Brazil’s most active player has been Robinho, who has shown a willingness (with limited success) to try and take on his defenders. Luis Fabiano has made some good runs into the box but has ultimately been left with bad-angle shots on goal.

North Korea has been able to get out on a few counter attacks, through they have failed to threaten Julio Cesar.

Brazil is ranked first in the world, while North Korea is ranked 105th.