Brazil takes control against solid North Korea defense to lead 2-0 after 75 minutes at WCup

Brazil leads North Korea 2-0 after 75 minutes

JOHANNESBURG — Brazil has finally shown its World Cup class, leading 2-0 against North Korea after 75 minutes of their World Cup match.

Defender Maicon fired his 55th-minute shot into the net from a tight angle to beat poorly positioned goalkeeper Ri Myong Guk.

Elano struck in the 73rd, placing a right-footed shot into the far corner of the net.

North Korea had frustrated the five-time champions through unselfish team play, forcing Brazil to rely on long-range shots.

Michel Bastos was wide with a 51st-minute free kick, and Robinho fired a shot off target two minutes later.

North Korea’s best chance was an 11th-minute shot by Jong Tae Se after he dribbled through three tackles.