LFR Sports

1>>>GERMANY 9 points. The first round draw for the hosts easily greases the skids to the 2nd round. We probably won't see the real Michael Ballack save for a possibly tough match against Poland. The press is reporting today that Ballack has an injured thigh and may miss the opener Friday. Remember, if Germany succeeds it's because of Ballack. The Germans have serious problems none of which carrying the traditional fine showing that the host country usually attains.

2>>>COSTA RICA 4 pts*. Being in the weakest group of these finals suits this team that narrowly missed advancing in 2002. They should learn a lesson this time around with a nice blend of experience and youth. Watch out for wing-back Christian Bolanos, along with Pablo Wanchope upfront, the two may put some balls in the net.

3>>>Poland 4 pts. The Poles are young gunslingers who have yet to rise up against strong competition. They've never beaten their German neighbors and will fall to a similar Costa Rican team that is more experienced. Their defense will ultimately cost them an early exit.

4>>>Ecuador 0 pts. This is probably the only team that can thank the glaciers that built up its capital to 3,000 feet over the last million years for getting them to the World Cup. In the altitude of Quito, the Ecuadoreans are dynamic, at sea level, they're anemic.

*Costa Ricans win on goal differential

Pivotal Match: Jun 20th. CRC 3-2 POL
Group MVP: Christian Bolanos (CRC)