Preview: The Costa Rican team, known at home simply as the "Ticos," had a somewhat difficult time qualifying out of a group in which they were considered the favorites.  They lost the first two matches to US and Mexico, but eventually recovered to win their last five.  In order to advance beyond the group stage, Costa Rica will have to survive it's first match against the heavily favored Germans, and outplay Poland and Ecuador.  The stars of the squad appear to be Ronald Gomez, who is a threat on the left, and Paulo Wanchope with his 67 career caps and 43 goals.

Result: The Ticos gave Germany a run for their money in the opening match of the 2006 World Cup.  Paulo Wanchope's 2 goals kept the game close and interested, and only added to his lore.  Costa Rica then proceeded to lose subsequent matches to Ecuador and Poland and bowed out of the tournament without a point.