Preview: Slovakia v New Zealand, Brazil v North Korea, Ivory Coast v Portugal

Slovakia v New Zealand
This match may very well be decided by the opening 10 minutes. New Zealand don't appear to be as good as their Oceanic neighbors Australia, who was thrashed by Germany. They will need a very good performance. Any team that can qualify out of Europe will be dangerous, and Slovakia are a good unknown. The Slovakian midfield of Hamsik, Strba, and Karhan should dominate New Zealand's Brown and Elliot. I think Slovakia will have the majority of possession and chances, and will win the match. Final score prediction: Slovakia 2.0 New Zealand

Brazil v North Korea
Dunga left out Ronaldinho from the World Cup squad and he would have been a key factor in South Africa. Also, if Dunga wants to get far in this tournament, they can't allow too many goals. We know they can score, but Maicon may not be a good enough defender and it could hurt them, and Dani Alves should be the starting right back. North Korea, like South Korea will be very fit, and can be dangerous with Jong Tae-se and An Yong-hak, and they are very organized, but I don't see an upset coming. Prediction: Brazil 3.1 North Korea

Ivory Coast v Portugal
This match may be decided by whether Didier Drogba will play due to his broken arm. However, the Toure brothers, Solomon Kalou, and Eboue all play in Europe and are impact players there. But still, Ivory Coast need Drogba. This match will probably be the fight for 2nd behind Brazil in Group G. Portugal have Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco, but could be hurting without Nani against a good defense. They must be organized defensively, for Ivory Coast have many good finishers, including maybe the best finisher in the world in Drogba. Prediction: Ivory Coast 3.2 Portugal