World Cup 2010 Group G: Brazil 2-1 North Korea

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Five-time world champions Brazil escaped with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over North Korea in their opening Group G match in Johannesburg.

Brazil broke the deadlock after 55 minutes when Maicon's bullet strike from an almost impossible angle beat Ri Myong-Guk, with the goalkeeper seemingly expecting the full-back to cut the ball back rather than shoot.

Elano then increased the lead in the 72nd minute after a well-timed pass from Robinho, finding the net with a one-timer from inside the area.

North Korea, who showed lots of endeavour, got their reward when Ji Yun-Nam waltzed through the Brazil defence before beating Júlio César to grab an 89th minute consolation.

Lineups:

Brazil: Júlio César; Maicon, Lúcio, Juan, Michel Bastos; Elano (Daniel Alves, 73), Gilberto Silva, Felipe Melo (Ramires, 84); Kaká (Nilmar, 78), Robinho; Luís Fabiano

North Korea: Ri Myong-Guk; Cha Jong-Hyok, Pak Chol-Jin, Pak Nam-Chol, Ri Kwang-Chon; Mun In-Guk (Kim Kum-Il, 80), Ri Jun-Il, Ji Yun-Nam; An Yong-Hak, Hong Yong-Jo; Jong Tae-Se

Statistics:

Shots on target :	11	-	3
Shots off target :	9	-	6
Ball possession (%) :	63	-	37
Corner kicks :	7	-	3
Offsides :	3	-	0
Fouls :	9	-	9
Yellow cards :	1	-	0
Red cards :	0	-	0

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Also see:

• World Cup 2010 Group G: Ivory Coast 0-0 Portugal