Brazil, North Korea level at 0-0 at half time as underdog gets reward for all its hard work

Brazil, North Korea level at 0-0 at half time

JOHANNESBURG — North Korea has held Brazil to a 0-0 tie at halftime Tuesday, showing no sign of being intimidated by the five-time World Cup winner.

The tournament’s lowest-ranked team has been rewarded for hard work in defense and neat, short passing style going forward.

North Korea has only Japan-based Jong Tae Se in attack. He dribbled through three tackles in the 11th minute before his shot was saved by goalkeeper Julio Cesar.

Brazil’s attacks are being met with smothering defense, and it is relying on glimpses of chances and long-range shots.

North Korea goalkeeper Ri Myong Guk showed good handling to gather shots from Elano and Robinho in the area. He pushed a Maicon’s long-range shot to safety in the 27th.