Finally, Carlos Quieroz is able to witness a performance that he must be extremely pleased about. This could have been a potential banana skin for the immensely talented but unpredictable Portuguese side. The last time these two sides met, Portugal won 5-3 at Goodison Park in the 1966 World Cup quarterfinal stage. The star of Portugal '66, Eusebio was at Cape Town to witness Portugal register their biggest ever World Cup victory in history. The Black Panther gave his thumbs-up approval for a seven-star Portuguese performance.
Cristiano Ronaldo who was largely anonymous in the first half, finally decided to make his presence in this summer's World Cup finals. He was his usual electrifying self in the second half, tormenting and skinning the North Korean defenders. In the end, he was the most outstanding player on the pitch and even had the opportunity to do a sheepish "head juggle" before netting his first goal and Portugal's sixth.
North Korea was finding it difficult to defend against Portugal's energetic midfielders with Raul Meireles being the pick of the bunch. The runs and movement from the Portuguese midfielders were continually left unchecked by North Korea. It was an uncharacteristic defensive display from the Chollimas and they paid a heavy price for this.
Portugal finally realized the potential that their talented players have hinted upon. This could be a turning point in their World Cup run-in. The match against Brazil may be the yardstick to gauge the prospects and aspiration of this Portuguese side. Carlos Quieroz always believed in the talent and quality of the Portuguese side he selected, now must be the time they fulfill their immense promise.
Queiroz and his team are now virtually assured to feature in the last 16, can they go all the way though?
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