North Korea versus Brazil: A dictatorship at the 2010 World Cup

Tonight's 2010 World Cup match between North Korea and Brazil was one of the most gripping matches I have seen.

I don't think I've ever wanted a football team to win quite so much as I did Brazil. Not so much because of their talent, but because of what the opposing team represented.

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), which is neither democratic nor owned by the people, is one of the most odious regimes in the world.

Unable to travel to another country without state permission, unable to listen to broadcasts perceived as opposing the state, at risk of human trafficking, watched by secret police, suffering food shortages as well as a brutal penal regime, the life of the average North Korean is harsh.

North Korea's football team did put up an impressive display. They lost 2-1, with Ji Yun-Nam scoring a fantastic goal. No doubt he will be feted by the regime, as will goalkeeper Ri Myong-guk.

It is unpleasant to have such a vile regime competing in the World Cup. Are we legitimising North Korea, or are we putting pressure on them to open up to the rest of the world? I fear the former.

I understand the World Cup is not supposed to be political, but it stills feels wrong allowing North Korea to play. Still, at least the North Korean football team, recognised as Korea DPR by the FA, are spending some time in a democratic nation.

Their coach Kim Jong-Hun will be under instruction not to let his players become corrupted by the capitalist lackeys.

Korea DPR will be facing Portugal on the 21st June at Cape Town Stadium.

Come on Portugal! Vindo em Portugal!

In related news, equally vile Somali militants have threatened World Cup viewers with public floggings.