Portugal crush North Korea 7-0 for first win
By DPA, IANSMonday, June 21, 2010
CAPE TOWN - Portugal took care of business in Group G of World Cup football with three goals in seven minutes to cruise past North Korea 7-0 Monday and took a big step towards reaching the round of 16 while eliminating the Asians.
Knowing they still have to face Brazil in their group finale, Portugal booked their first victory in South Africa with Raul Meireles scoring the opener in the 29th minute. Simao made it 2-0 after 53 minutes and was followed by Hugo Almeida in the 56th.
Tiago scored twice at the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town. Substitute Liedson joined the scoring sheet in the 81st minute, and Cristiano Ronaldo also converted, ending an 11-game goal-less streak dating back to February 2009.
The win gave Portugal four points in Group G, behind Brazil, who have already booked a final 16 spot with six points from two games. Ivory Coast have one point and North Korea are left on zero points and have been eliminated.
The margin of victory was also important for Portugal, who need only a draw again Brazil to advance and could advance still with a loss should Ivory Coast not beat North Korea convincingly.
