Since the World Cup groupings were announced, everyone making sports picks has hyped Group G as the “Group of Death.” With Spain, Portugal and Ivory Coast sharing one group, it’s hard not to. But will this group still be as hotly contested now that a certain African hero has a certain broken limb?

Brazil

This isn’t your daddy’s – or Pele’s – Brazil team, but it’s still as dominant as ever. Unlike the powerhouse offensive units Brazil has traditionally fielded, this squad embraces the team concept much more. It actually does a great job keeping balls out of its own net thanks to Julio Cesar in goal and guys like Lucio and Juan in front of him. That said, Kaka and Robinho will do plenty to put Brazil on the board. These guys have lost once in two years and could very well run the table in South Africa.

Portugal

Collectively, the sports betting community is turning a blind eye to a truly lackluster qualifying effort in which Portugal almost didn’t even qualify for the big dance. But the truth is that star scorer Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t healthy during those games and the team is still extremely talented. Brazilian-born Liedson will open up more space out wide for Ronaldo and the defense is in good hands with Ricardo Carvalho and Bruno Alves.

Ivory Coast

Just a week ago, Ivory Coast and Portugal were considered a coin flip in the Group of Death. Then superstar Didier Drogba broke his elbow. It’s a real shame that he either won’t play or won’t play at 100 per cent (the latter is more likely), as Ivory Coast had a chance to really steal our hearts in this tourney. Drogba wasn’t alone, as Ivory Coast’s solid midfield features a great footballer in Yaya Toure, but there’s no denying this team is weaker than it was just a few days ago.

North Korea

It’s pretty much Murphy’s Law for North Korea’s first World Cup berth since 1966. The G.O.D. draw is already a big enough nail to seal the coffin, but the team also dealt with food poisoning and coach Jim Jong-hun even got caught trying to sneak a spare striker on the team disguised as a backup “goalie.” Better luck next time, North Korea.

Free pick: Brazil and Portugal. A week ago, I probably would’ve chosen Ivory Coast, but Drogba’s injury breaks the stalemate for second place.

Now for the latest odds courtesy of BetED