Portugal Beats North Korea in 7-0 Rout

On a rain-soaked afternoon on South Africa's Western Cape, Portugal ended its goal drought in spectacular style, sweeping to a 7-0 win over North Korea — the highest score of the tournament so far — and grabbing a commanding position to qualify out of Group G.

The victory, which was even more one-sided than the scoreline suggests, means that barring the heaviest of defeats against Brazil on Friday and a big Ivory Coast win over North Korea, Portugal is almost certain to join Brazil in the knockout round.

"It was a great day for Portuguese football," said Carlos Queiroz, the Portuguese coach. "The players played in a wonderful way, with a great attitude and we scored some beautiful goals. Now we have to be more ambitious for the next phase."