World Cup 2006 Teams
Angola - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Luis Oliveira Goncalves
Goalkeepers:
Joao Ricardo, Joao Mamona Lama, Hipolito Mario
Defenders:
Luis Delgado, Joao Jamba, Carlos Kali, Antonio Lebo Lebo, Manuel Loco, Marco Abreu, Marcos Airosa, Manuel Rui Marques.
Midfielders:
Andre Macanga, Nobre Edson, Antonio Mendonca, Paulo Figueiredo, Marcos Miloy, Jose Ze Kalanga, Andre Mateus.
Forwards:
Fabrice Akwa, Andre Titi Buengo, Amado Flavio, Arsenio Love, Pedro Manuel Mantorras.
Angola statistics Participating for the First time in the World Cup Finals in Group D with Mexico, Iran, Portugal.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Joao Ricardo
2- Marcos Airosa
3-Joao Jamba
4- Antonio Lebo Lebo
5- Carlos Kali
6- Marcos Miloy
7- Paulo Figueiredo
8- Andre Macanga
9- Pedro Manuel Mantorras
10- Fabrice Akwa
11- Andre Mateus
12- Joao Mamona Lama
13- Nobre Edson
14- Antonio Mendonca
15- Manuel Rui Marques
16- Amado Flavio
17- Jose Ze Kalanga
18- Arsenio Love
19- Andre Titi Buengo
20- Manuel Loco
21- Luis Delgado
22- Hipolito Mario
23- Marco Abreu
Angola finally succeeded in qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Finals in its sixth attempt. The team is banking on its solid defence that that could come up as a challenge for many teams in the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Germany.
The team first competed for a place at the FIFA World Cup in 1984 in the preliminary competition for World Cup 1986 in Mexico. Since then it has been a long wait. After a span of 21 years the team has now earned its golden opportunity. Angola was a part of a very tough group comprising Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Angola narrowly succeeded in getting the ticket from football powerhouse Nigeria. Credit for that goes to the coach - Luis Oliveria Goncalves for inculcating team spirit and resilience in the Angolan team.
Unfortunately the Angolan campaign got off on an inauspicious start during their preliminary match with minnows Chad. Angola suffered a shocking 3-1 defeat in November 2003. As a result their Brazilian Coach Ismael Kurtz was dismissed. Their Captain Akwa led Angola to a 2-0 victory under the guidance of new coach Goncalves. Through this win Angola entered the Group stage. Here they were placed in Group 4 alongside Nigeria (a strong contender to qualify) as well as Algeria, Gabon, Zimbabwe and Rwanda. Along with Akwa, the players to look for in the Angolan side include Mantorras, Figueirido, Joao Pereira, Maurito and Ze Kalanga.
Seeing it's past record, initially everyone was not very confident if Angola would make it to the World Cup Finals. Two appearances at the CAF African Cup of Nations Finals, 2001 CAF African U-20 Championship triumph and participation at FIFA World Youth Championship in Argentina was all that was there in the team's performance kitty.
The point that Angola earned in Nigeria helped the underdog get into the summit of Group 4. Angola was successful in Algeria and Gabon too. Angola defeated Nigeria 1-0 in Luanda and had a 1-1 draw match in Kano.
Angola is in Group D along with Mexico, Iran and Portugal. The Angolan fans have a lot of expectations from their team.
Mexico - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Ricardo La Volpe
Goalkeepers:
Oswaldo Sanchez, Jose de Jesus Corona, Guillermo Ochoa.
Defenders:
Claudio Suarez, Carlos Salcido, Rafael Marquez, Ricardo Osorio, Gonzalo Pineda, Jose Antonio Castro, Mario Mendez, Andres Guardado, Francisco Rodriguez.
Midfielders:
Gerardo Torrado, Zinha (Antonio Naelson Matiasar), Pavel Pardo, Ramon Morales, Rafael Garcia, Luis Perez.
Forwards:
Jared Borgetti, Guillermo Franco, Jose Fonseca, Omar Bravo, Jesus Arellano.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Oswaldo Sanchez
2- Claudio Suarez
3- Carlos Salcido
4- Rafael Marquez
5- Ricardo Osorio
6- Gerardo Torrado
7- Zinha (Antonio Naelson Matiasar)
8- Pavel Pardo
9- Jared Borgetti
10- Guillermo Franco
11- Ramon Morales
12- Jose de Jesus Corona
13- Guillermo Ochoa
14- Gonzalo Pineda
15- Jose Antonio Castro
16- Mario Mendez
17- Jose Fonseca
18- Andres Guardado
19- Omar Bravo
20- Rafael Garcia
21- Jesus Arellano
22- Francisco Rodriguez
23- Luis Perez
Argentina - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Jose Pekerman
Goalkeepers:
Roberto Abbondanzieri, Oscar Ustari, Leonardo Franco
Defenders:
Roberto Ayala, Gabriel Heinze, Juan Pablo Sorin, Nicolas Burdisso, Gabriel Milito, Leandro Cufre, Fabricio Coloccini.
Midfielders:
Javier Mascherano, Esteban Cambiasso, Pablo Aimar, Javier Mascherano, Luis Gonzalez, Maximiliano 'Maxi' Rodriguez, Lionel Scaloni.
Forwards:
Carlos Tevez, Hernan Crespo, Lionel Messi, Javier Saviola, Julio Cruz, Rodrigo Palacio.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Roberto Abbondanzieri
2- Roberto Ayala
3- Juan Pablo Sorin
4- Fabricio Coloccini
5- Esteban Cambiasso
6- Gabriel Heinze
7- Javier Saviola
8- Javier Mascherano
9- Hernan Crespo
10- Juan Roman Riquelme
11- Carlos Tevez
12- Leonardo Franco
13- Lionel Scaloni
14- Rodrigo Palacio
15- Gabriel Milito
16- Pablo Aimar
17- Leandro Cufre
18- Maximiliano 'Maxi' Rodriguez
19- Lionel Messi
20- Julio Cruz
21- Nicolas Burdisso
22- Luis Gonzalez
23- Oscar Ustari
Argentina Soccer Team, a two-time world champion is one of the favorites for the FIFA World Cup 2006, Germany. The team became the first South American country to qualify for the World Cup Finals on 8th June 2005 when they defeated Brazil 3 - 1, with three matches still to be played in their CONMEBOL zone.
Player to look for in the 'Albiceleste' side are midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme (jersey no. 10) (Villarreal), defender Gabriel Heinze (jersey no. 6) (Manchester United) and forwards Carlos Tevez (jersey no. 11) (Corinthians), Hernan Crespo (jersey no. 9) (Chelsea) & Lionel Messi (jersey no. 19) (Barcelona).
Argentina's defeat of Brazil in Buones Aires confirmed their qualification with 34 points. This time they secured the second position in their qualifying group, the first position being held by Brazil. In the past since the qualifiers of USA 94, Argentina Soccer Team has been securing the top place in the CONMEBOL Group. This time the team had ten wins, four draws and four defeats.
Argentina has won the World Cup twice in the years 1978 and 1986. Mario Kempes was the star player in the 1978 triumph and Diego Maradona led the 1986 triumph.
Argentina Soccer Team will be playing in Group C along with Serbia and Montenegro, Cote d'Ivoire and Netherlands. When the eight groups were drawn on 09th Dec 2005; Group C was termed the suicidal group as all the four teams are strong and only two will go into the next round.
Serbia and Montenegro topped its group without losing any match and conceding only 1 goal in the 10 qualifying matches. Their group included Spain.
Cote d'Ivoire topped its group, which included Cameroon and Egypt (winner of 2006 Africa Cup of Nations).
Netherlands topped its group, which included Czech Republic by scoring 10 wins and 2 draws in the 12 qualifying matches.
The Argentinians unfortunately failed to advance from the group stage in Korea/Japan 2002. It was a painful exit for the Albiceleste and they are looking forward to conquer the crown for the third time. This time it is difficult to predict if Argentina can shine like its earlier glorious days.
Netherlands - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Marco van Basten
Goalkeepers:
Edwin Van der Sar, Henk Timmer, Maarten Stekelenburg.
Defenders:
Kew Jaliens, Khalid Boulahrouz, Joris Mathijsen, Giovanni Van Bronckhorst, Jan Kromkamp, Andre Ooijer, John Heitinga, Tim De Cler.
Midfielders:
Denny Landzaat, Rafael Van der Vaart, Hedwiges Maduro, Mark Van Bommel, Wesley Sneijder.
Forwards:
Dirk Kuyt, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Ryan Babel.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Edwin Van der Sar
2- Kew Jaliens
3- Khalid Boulahrouz
4- Joris Mathijsen
5- Giovanni Van Bronckhorst
6- Denny Landzaat
7- Dirk Kuyt
8- Phillip Cocu
9- Ruud van Nistelrooy
10- Rafael Van der Vaart
11- Arjen Robben
12- Jan Kromkamp
13- Andre Ooijer
14- John Heitinga
15- Tim De Cler
16- Hedwiges Maduro
17- Robin Van Persie
18- Mark Van Bommel
19- Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink
20- Wesley Sneijder
21- Ryan Babel
22- Henk Timmer
23- Maarten Stekelenburg
Netherlands Soccer Team is playing in Group C along with Argentina, Cote d'Ivoire and Serbia and Montenegro. Netherlands has participated in the World cup seven times. The golden era for the Dutch team was in the 1970s. The Dutch team is nicknamed the Oranje.
The Oranje finished fourth at France 98 and failed to qualify for 2002 South Korea/Japan finals. They were defeated in the qualifying Group 2 by Portugal and the Republic of Ireland. It was a big blow for them.
Under coach Rinus Michels, Netherlands Soccer Team finished runners-up in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. The Dutch team made it to the finals again in 1978 where they lost 3-1 to Argentina and became the first back-to-back runners-up. The team also won the 1988 European Championship. They reached the last four at France 98.
In July 2004, Marco van Basten was appointed coach in place of Dick Advocaat. After joining Basten rejuvenated the new side and this helped the team in passing through the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Netherlands Soccer team came at the top of their group with 10 victories and two draws.
In the first match of their Germany 2006 qualifying campaign, the Oranje defeated the Czech Republic 2-0 in Amsterdam on 8 September 2004. They again defeated the Czechs 2-0 in Prague on 8 October, 2005.
Star players to watch from the Dutch team are Edwin Van Der Sar, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Marl van Bommel, Jan Kromkamp and Ryan Babel. The Dutch unit is highly impressive this time and the fans are hopeful that their team will come out with flying colours.
Australia - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Guus Hiddink.
Captain
Mark Viduka.
Goalkeepers:
Mark Schwarzer, Zeljko Kalac, Ante Covic.
Defenders:
Michael Beauchamp, Craig Moore, Lucas Neill, Tony Popovic, Mark Milligan.
Midfielders:
Marco Bresciano, Tim Cahill, Scott Chipperfield, Jason Culina, Brett Emerton, Vince Grella, Stan Lazaridis, Josip Skoko, Mile Sterjovski, Luke Wilkshire.
Forwards:
John Aloisi, Harry Kewell, Archie Thompson, Joshua Kennedy.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Mark Schwarzer
2- Lucas Neill
3- Craig Moore
4- Tim Cahill
5- Jason Culina
6- Tony Popovic
7- Brett Emerton
8- Josip Skoko
9- Mark Viduka
10- Harry Kewell
11- Stan Lazaridis
12- Ante Covic
13- Vince Grella
14- Scott Chipperfield
15- John Aloisi
16- Michael Beauchamp
17- Archie Thompson
18- Zeljko Kalac
19- Joshua Kennedy
20- Luke Wilkshire
21- Mile Sterjovski
22- Mark Milligan
23- Marco Bresciano
The Australians secured qualification to play in FIFA Word Cup 2006 in Germany with a 4-2 penalty shoot-out win over Uruguay in Sydney's Telstra Stadium. Australia will be playing in Group F and has tough competition to face from Brazil, Croatia and Japan.
The Socceroos have reached the finals after a span of 32 years. In 1974, Australia played with Chile, German DR and German FR in the group stages. Unfortunately they failed to secure a single goal. Bad luck followed them in the FIFA Confederations Cup of Germany 2005 where they could not win a single match. Australia's Dutch Coach Guus Hiddink guided the team successfully after the play-off defeats in 1985, 1993, 1997 and 2001.
In the preliminary rounds the Socceroos performed really well. In Oceania's group stage they won four out of five and drew one. Australia defeated Solomon Islands 9-1 over two legs and this landed them up in the play-off match with Uruguay.
The star players to look for in the team this time include midfielders Nick Ward and Tim Cahill. Nick Ward is considered a strong contender for the FIFA World Cup Young Player of the Tournament. Tim Cahill too is a fabulous performer. He led the Australian scorers with seven goals in the Oceania Qualifying section. Defender Tony Vidmar and the captain Mark Viduka are other players to watch.
This is Australia's second appearance in the World Cup finals. The Socceroos team wants to make the most of this opportunity and plan to storm through the finals. They are quite hopeful and are banking on the able guidance of coach Hiddink.
Paraguay - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Anibal Ruiz
Goalkeepers:
Justo Villar, Derlis Gomez, Aldo Bobadilla.
Defenders:
Jorge Nunez, Delio Toledo, Carlos Gamarra, Julio Cesar Caceres, Paulo Da Silva, Julio Cesar Manzur, Denis Caniza.
Midfielders:
Carlos Bonet, Edgar Barreto, Roberto Acuna, Diego Gavilan, Carlos Humberto Paredes, Cristian Riveros, Jose Montiel, Julio Dos Santos.
Forwards:
Salvador Cabanas, Roque Santa Cruz, Nelson Haedo Valdez, Jose Saturnino Cardozo, Nelson Cuevas.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Justo Villar
2- Jorge Nunez
3- Delio Toledo
4- Carlos Gamarra
5- Julio Cesar Caceres
6- Carlos Bonet
7- Salvador Cabanas
8- Edgar Barreto
9- Roque Santa Cruz
10- Roberto Acuna
11- Diego Gavilan
12- Derlis Gomez
13- Carlos Humberto Paredes
14- Paulo Da Silva
15- Julio Cesar Manzur
16- Cristian Riveros
17- Jose Montiel
18- Nelson Haedo Valdez
19- Julio Dos Santos
20- Jose Saturnino Cardozo
21- Denis Caniza
22- Aldo Bobadilla
23- Nelson Cuevas
Paraguay Soccer Team is playing in Group B along with England, Trinidad and Tobago and Sweden. Paraguay has participated in the World Cup six times. This time it is the nation's third consecutive World Cup appearance. In France'98 and in South Korea/Japan in 2002, Paraguay made it to the last 16. The 'golden generation' of the nation comprising of Denis Caniza, Roberto Acuna and Jose Cardozo will get to play the last time this FIFA season and will try to get the most out of it. The team of Paraguay is nicknamed the Albirroja.
In the last two FIFA World Cups, Paraguay Soccer Team was defeated by 1-0 margin in the second round. In the 1998 France World Cup it lost to eventual champions France and in 2002 South Korea/Japan World Cup it lost to eventual runner-ups Germany. This FIFA season they have booked a place at Germany 2006. It provides them the perfect opportunity to prove their mettle this time.
Paraguay Soccer Team suffered a 4-1 defeat against Peru in their opening qualifying game in Sept 2003. The Albirroja showed their worth with a series of big wins in Asuncion and away from home. They were assured of their third consecutive appearance at the FIFA World Cup on 8 October 2005 in Maracaibo, Venezuela when they defeated Venezuela 1-0. In their final qualifier the team suffered a 1-0 home defeat by Colombia on 12 October 2005.
Paraguay had eight wins, four draws and six defeats. They had 23 goals for and the same number against. The team scored its first ever qualifying win over Argentina on 3 September, 2005. It was a 1-0 win.
At France 98 goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert captained the side to goalless draws against Bulgaria and Spain and a victory over Nigeria. They were out after the second round but they had put forth a commendable performance. In South Korea/Japan as well the team exceeded expectations.
Paraguay will be playing with England in the Group B opener on the 10th of June and everyone is hopeful that the team will put forth a commendable performance.
Brazil - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Carlos Alberto Parreira
Goalkeepers:
Nelson Dida, Soares Julio Cesar, Rogerio Ceni.
Defenders:
Marcos Cafu, Ferreira Lucio, Joao Cicinho, Anderson Luisao, Cristiano Cris, Da Silva Gilberto, Roberto Carlos, Silveira Juan.
Midfielders:
Gilberto Silva, Jose Gomes Edmilson, Juninho Pernambucano, Luis Ricardinho,Fereira da Rosa Emerson, Ricardo Kaka, Jose Ze Roberto.
Forwards:
Leite Adriano, Luiz Ronaldo, Gaucho Ronaldinho, Chaves Fred, De Souza Robinho.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Nelson Dida
2- Marcos Cafu
3- Ferreira Lucio
4- Silveira Juan
5- Fereira da Rosa Emerson
6- Roberto Carlos
7- Leite Adriano
8- Ricardo Kaka
9- Luiz Ronaldo
10- Gaucho Ronaldinho
11- Jose Ze Roberto
12- Rogerio Ceni
13- Joao Cicinho
14- Anderson Luisao
15- Cristiano Cris
16- Da Silva Gilberto
17- Gilberto Silva
18- Jose Gomes Edmilson
19- Juninho Pernambucano
20- Luis Ricardinho
21- Chaves Fred
22- Soares Julio Cesar
23- De Souza Robinho
Being the most successful team in the FIFA World Cup's history, Brazil Soccer Team is ranked as world's number one football team. The Brazilian soccer team has been football champions for five times. Brazil is playing in Group F. Other teams in the group are Croatia, Australia and Japan. They are the only team to have qualified for every single FIFA World Cup.
The Brazil Soccer Team had to face problems in qualifying for South Korea/Japan 2002. But the powerful team showed its caliber and went on to win the 2002 S.Korea/Japan World Cup. The Brazilians are preparing to their best to defend their world crown this FIFA season.
During the qualifiers the Brazilian team played in the CONMEBOL (S. America Zone). In the 18 qualifying matches which Brazil played, it lost only two. The Selecao recorded nine wins, seven draws and two defeats. Brazil Team finished with 34 points securing the top position in the South American Group. Brazil scored more goals than any of the rivals, they scored a total of 35 goals. They were defeated by Argentina in Buenos Aires. But later they gave their rival a four-goal hiding in the final of the FIFA confederations Cup.
The team is an explosive mixture of talented players. The FIFA World Player of the Year Ronaldinho, Captain Marcos Cafu, Luiz Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos are the players to watch from the Brazilian team.
The soccer-crazy nation is home to 200 million Brazilian fans, who are expecting another feather in their country's cap this time. Brazil Soccer Team has always been full on its entertainment quotient. And this year the Brazilians are definitely a team to watch more because of the reason that for close to half a century a South American side has not won on European grounds.
Poland - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Pawel Janas
Goalkeepers:
Artur Boruc, Tomasz Kuszczak, Lukasz Fabianski.
Defenders:
Mariusz Jop, Seweryn Gancarczyk, Jacek Bak, Michal Zewlakow, Dariusz Dudka, Mariusz Lewandowski, Marcin Baszczynski.
Midfielders:
Kamil Kosowski, Radoslaw Sobolewski, Jacek Krzynowek, Miroslaw Szymkowiak, Sebastian Mila, Euzebiusz 'Ebi' Smolarek, Arkadiusz Radomski, Damian Gorawski, Piotr Giza.
Forwards:
Maciej Zurawski, Grzegorz Rasiak, Ireneusz Jelen, Pawel Brozek.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Artur Boruc
2- Mariusz Jop
3- Seweryn Gancarczyk
4- Marcin Baszczynski
5- Kamil Kosowski
6- Jacek Bak
7- Radoslaw Sobolewski
8- Jacek Krzynowek
9- Maciej Zurawski
10- Miroslaw Szymkowiak
11- Grzegorz Rasiak
12- Tomasz Kuszczak
13- Sebastian Mila
14- Michal Zewlakow
15- Euzebiusz 'Ebi' Smolarek
16- Arkadiusz Radomski
17- Dariusz Dudka
18- Mariusz Lewandowski
19- Damian Gorawski
20- Piotr Giza
21- Ireneusz Jelen
22- Lukasz Fabianski
23- Pawel Brozek
Poland Soccer Team is playing in Group A along with Germany, Costa Rica and Ecuador. Poland has participated in the World Cup six times in 1938, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986 and 2002. This time the Polish team surprised everyone by qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup before its last group match away to England.
The Poles will be in high spirits this time as the Poles scored their greatest triumph in footballing history on German Soil with the third place at the 1974 finals.
The polish team lost both at home and away to England. But they emerged triumphant in all the remaining eight qualifiers. The team under the guidance of coach Pawel Janas is all prepared to make history this time.
Poland Soccer Team has earlier won the gold at the Olympic Football Tournament in Munich. It secured a third-place finish at the 1974 finals in Germany two years later. Poland defeated France at Spain 82 to secure the third place. Poland reappeared at the FIFA World Cup finals after a 16-year gap. At South Korea/Japan 2002, the Polish suffered a first-round exit from the finals.
The Polish team failed to reach the UEFA EURO 2004 finals. This time the Poles want to prove themselves by putting forth a commendable performance at Germany 2006.
Poland Soccer Team put forth an impressive performance in the qualifying matches. The pair of Maciej Zurawski and Tomas Frankowski scored a total of 14 goals in the qualifying matches. Maciej Zurawski was also named the Polish player of the year in 2002.
Costarica - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Alexandre Guimaraes
Goalkeepers:
Alvaro Mesen, Jose Francisco Porras, Wardy Alfaro.
Defenders:
Jervis Drummond, Luis Marin, Michael Umana, Gilberto Martinez, Leonardo Gonzalez, Harold Wallace, Gabriel Badilla, Michael Rodriguez.
Midfielders:
Danny Fonseca, Cristian Bolanos, Mauricio Solis, Walter Centeno, Kurt Bernard, Carlos Hernandez, Douglas Sequeira
Forwards:
Victor Nunez, Alvaro Saborio, Kurt Bernard, Paulo Wanchope, Ronald Gomez.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Alvaro Mesen
2- Jervis Drummond
3- Luis Marin
4- Michael Umana
5- Gilberto Martinez
6- Danny Fonseca
7- Cristian Bolanos
8- Mauricio Solis
9- Paulo Wanchope
10- Walter Centeno
11- Ronald Gomez
12- Leonardo Gonzalez
13- Kurt Bernard
14- Randall Azofeifa
15- Harold Wallace
16- Carlos Hernandez
17- Gabriel Badilla
18- Jose Francisco Porras
19- Alvaro Saborio
20- Douglas Sequeira
21- Victor Nunez
22- Michael Rodriguez
23- Wardy Alfaro
Costa Rica Soccer Team is playing in Group A along with Germany, Poland and Equador. This time it will be Costa Rica's third appearance at the FIFA World Cup. Their first-stage opponent was Cuba. A 0-0 draw in their final game in Honduras put them through to the final phase. Costa Rica Soccer Team faced a 2-1 home defeat by Mexico, a 3-0 loss away to the United States and a draw with Trinidad and Tobago was all that was there in the team's kitty. A 2-1 win over Panama gave the only ray of hope. Costa Rica finished third in the CONCACAF qualifying group behind Mexico and USA.
The Brazil-born coach, Alexandre Gujmaraes was a part of the 1990 Costa Rican team that qualified for the second phase of the World Cup in Italy. The coach who guided the Ticos to Korea/Japan 2002, returned in April 2005. Under his able guidance, Costa Rica defeated Guatemala, Panama, T&T and the USA to secure a berth in Germany.
During their appearance at Italia 90 and Korea/Japan 2002, Costa Rica displayed that they are a talented bunch.
The players to watch this time are Gilberto Martinez, Walter Centano and Forward Paulo Wanchope.
Costa Rica Soccer Team takes on hosts Germany in the tournament-opener in Munich on June 9th. Analysts are saying that the 'Ticos' might not be a danger for the German team but opening matches are not always easy.
Portugal - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Luiz Felipe Scolari
Goalkeepers:
Alexandre Pereira Ricardo, Silva Quim, Miguel Bruno Vale.
Defenders:
Renato Paulo Ferreira, Marco Caneira, Miguel Ricardo Costa, Fernando Meira, Luis Monteiro Miguel, Jorge Nuno Valente, Alberto Ricardo Carvalho.
Midfielders:
Francisco Costinha, Luis Figo, Armando Petit, Hugo Viana, Sabrosa Simao, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nuno Maniche, Cardoso Mendes Tiago, Anderson Deco.
Forwards:
Pedro Pauleta, Luis Boa Morte, Miguel Nuno Gomes, Helder Postiga.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Alexandre Pereira Ricardo
2- Renato Paulo Ferreira
3- Marco Caneira
4- Miguel Ricardo Costa
5- Fernando Meira
6- Francisco Costinha
7- Luis Figo
8- Armando Petit
9- Pedro Pauleta
10- Hugo Viana
11- Sabrosa Simao
12- Silva Quim
13- Luis Monteiro Miguel
14- Jorge Nuno Valente
15- Luis Boa Morte
16- Alberto Ricardo Carvalho
17- Cristiano Ronaldo
18- Nuno Maniche
19- Cardoso Mendes Tiago
20- Anderson Deco
21- Miguel Nuno Gomes
22- Miguel Bruno Vale
23- Helder Postiga
Portugal Soccer Team is playing in Group D along with Mexico, Iran and Angola. Portugal has participated in the World Cup thrice in 1966, 1986 and 2002. They were the losing finalists at the European Championships two years ago.
In their qualifying campaign, Portugal Soccer Team had nine wins and three draws from their 12 games. The team scored more goals than any other team in Europe. Striker Pauleta secured the top position in the continental scorer's chart because of the eleven goals he scored.
It is expected from the Portugal side that they'll reach the second round in Germany. In South Korea / Japan 2002, Portugal lost to USA and South Korea and did not proceed beyond the first stage.
Portugal Soccer Team faced its toughest matches against Liechtenstein. They had a 2-2 draw in Vaduz in October 2004. Within four days they went ahead and defeated Russia 7-1 in Lisbon. This defeat was considered their finest display in their Group 3 campaign. 12 months later they secured a 2-1 win in Aveiro. This FIFA season the Portugal Soccer Team will be taking part in their fourth FIFA World Cup finals campaign. The appearance in 1966 is still reminisced by Portuguese fans. Eusebio and the team successfully sailed to the semi-finals.
Luis Figo was on international exile after he withdrew from international football in July 2004. Now he has returned to take over as captain. Other players to watch are Cristiano Ronaldo, Midfielder Deco and defender Ricardo Carvalho.
Cote d'Ivoire - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Manager:
Henri Michel
Goalkeepers:
Jean Jacques Tizie, Gerard Gnanhouan, Boubacar Copa Barry.
Defenders:
Cyrille Domoraud, Blaise Kouassi, Abdoulaye Meite, Kanga Gauthier Akale, Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue, Marc Zoro.
Midfielders:
Didier Zokora, Emerse Fae, Kanga Gauthier Akale, Ndri Koffi Romaric, Gnegneri Yaya Toure, Guy Roland Demel, Gilles Yapi Yapo
Forwards:
Bonaventure Kalou, Arouna Kone, Didier Drogba, Bakary Kone, Aruna Dindane, Abdul Kader Keita.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Jean Jacques Tizie
2- Etienne Arthur Boka
3- Kanga Gauthier Akale
4- Kolo Toure
5- Didier Zokora
6- Blaise Kouassi
7- Emerse Fae
8- Bonaventure Kalou
9- Arouna Kone
10- Gilles Yapi Yapo
11- Didier Drogba
12- Abdoulaye Meite
13- Marc Zoro
14- Bakary Kone
15- Aruna Dindane
16- Gerard Gnanhouan
17- Cyrille Domoraud
18- Abdul Kader Keita
19- Gnegneri Yaya Toure
20- Guy Roland Demel
21- Emmanuel Eboue
22- Ndri Koffi Romaric
23- Boubacar Copa Barry
Cote d'Ivoire is playing in Group C along with Argentina, Serbia and Montenegro and the Netherlands. This time, Group C is considered the "Group of Death". They are nicknamed 'the Elephants'. Cote d'Ivoire is amongst the four African teams to qualify for the 2006 World Cup.
During the qualifiers, the Ivorians had a tough competition in front of them. They had to face Cameroon, Egypt, Sudan and Libya. Cameroon had five appearances and Egypt had two appearances in the FIFA World Cup finals to their credit. The Ivorians had only the African Cup of Nation's title achieved in Senegal in 1992 to its credit. The Ivorians had also failed to qualify for the last Nations Cup in Tunisia.
The team registered four wins and only one-defeat in the opening five matches. The highlight was their 2-1 victory in Cairo. In the second half of the qualifiers, they emerged as the leaders of Group 3. They defeated Benin in a 3-0 home victory. They managed only a 0-0 draw against Libya in Tripoli.
The match against Cameroon was considered the 'group final'. The Lions defeated the Elephants with a 3-2 victory. But Cameroon could not cross the final hurdle. Côte d'Ivoire defeated Sudan 3-1. Cameroon had a 1-1 draw with Egypt. This way the Ivorians got their qualification for the finals. Cote d'Ivoire is better known for its individuals than its team. The star players of the team are defenders Kolo Toure and Cyrille Domoraud. Didier Drogba and Aruna Dindane are other players to watch this season.
Saudi Arabia - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Marcos Paqueta
Goalkeepers:
Mohammed Al Daeyea, Mabrouk Zaid, Mohammad Khojah
Defenders:
Ahmed Dokhi, Redha Tukar, Hamad Al Montashari, Naif Al Qadi, Abdulaziz Khathran, Hussein Sulimani, Ahmed Al Bahri, Mohammed Massad.
Midfielders:
Omar Al Ghamdi, Mohammed Ameen, Mohammed Noor, Mohammad Al Shlhoub, Saud Khariri, Khaled Aziz, Nawaf Al Temyat.
Forwards:
Sami Al Jaber, Saad Al Harthi, Mohammed Al Anbar, Yaser Al Kahtani, Malek Mouath.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Mohammed Al Daeyea
2- Ahmed Dokhi
3- Redha Tukar
4- Hamad Al Montashari
5- Naif Al Qadi
6- Omar Al Ghamdi
7- Mohammed Ameen
8- Mohammed Noor
9- Sami Al Jaber
10- Mohammad Al Shlhoub
11- Saad Al Harthi
12- Abdulaziz Khathran
13- Hussein Sulimani
14- Saud Khariri
15- Ahmed Al Bahri
16- Khaled Aziz
17- Mohammed Al Anbar
18- Nawaf Al Temyat
19- Mohammed Massad
20- Yaser Al Kahtani
21- Mabrouk Zaid
22- Mohammad Khojah
23- Malek Mouath
Saudi Arabia Soccer Team is playing in Group H along with Spain, Ukraine and Tunisia. The Saudi team played their first world cup in 1994 and is a newcomer into the soccer arena. This FIFA season the Saudi Arabia Soccer Team be playing their fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup.
This time qualifying was not very tough for the Saudi Arabia team. The team went undefeated through 12 qualifiers with 10 wins and 2 drawn matches. In the preliminary group stages they won all six games against Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Turkmenistan. The Saudis delivered in the final round as well.
In a Final Round Group 1 qualifying match opener in February 2005, veteran striker Sami Al Jaber's goal helped the Saudi team to draw 1-1 with Uzbekistan. In the following month they secured a 2-0 victory over South Korea in Dammam. The Saudi Arabia Soccer Team also secured a 1-0 victory over South Korea in Seoul in August 2005. Before this match they had secured a place in the FIFA finals on 8 June with a 3-0 home success over Uzbekistan.
Asian Champions for three times in 1984,1988 and 1996, the Saudis made their first FIFA World Cup finals appearance at USA 94. During their 1994 debut in the USA they put forth a sensational performance beating Morocco and Belgium to qualify for the second round. Unfortunately in the second round they lost to Sweden. But in the 2002 World Cup they lost 8-0 to Germany. This time Saudi soccer fans are hopeful that under Brazilian coach Marcos Paqueta the team will come out with good performances. The players in the team have been picked from Saudi Arabia's top three clubs - Al Ahlv, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad.
Sami Al Jaber is called the hero of Saudi Arabia. He contributed considerably in moving through the two group phases. He is one of the crucial players to watch from the Saudi Arabia Soccer Team this season.
Croatia - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Manager:
Henri Michel
Goalkeepers:
Tomislav Butina, Joey Didulica, Stipe Pletikosa, Vladimir Vasilj.
Defenders:
Robert Kovac, Igor Tudor, Josip Simunic, Stjepan Tomas, Mario Tokic, Dario Simic.
Midfielders:
Jerko Leko, Darijo Srna, Jurica Vranjes, Niko Kovac, Marko Babic, Niko Kranjcar, Ivan Leko, Luka Modric, Anthony Seric.
Forwards:
Dado Prso, Ivan Klasnic, Bosko Balaban, Ivica Olic, Ivan Bosnjak.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Jean Jacques Tizie
2- Etienne Arthur Boka
3- Kanga Gauthier Akale
4- Kolo Toure
5- Didier Zokora
6- Blaise Kouassi
7- Emerse Fae
8- Bonaventure Kalou
9- Arouna Kone
10- Gilles Yapi Yapo
11- Didier Drogba
12- Abdoulaye Meite
13- Marc Zoro
14- Bakary Kone
15- Aruna Dindane
16- Gerard Gnanhouan
17- Cyrille Domoraud
18- Abdul Kader Keita
19- Gnegneri Yaya Toure
20- Guy Roland Demel
21- Emmanuel Eboue
22- Ndri Koffi Romaric
23- Boubacar Copa Barry
Although Croatia Soccer Team is not among the favourites of the FIFA Cup this season, the reason for the team to celebrate is that it is amongst the elite football playing teams. Croatia is playing in Group F along with Brazil, Australia and Japan.
Croatia Soccer Team reached their third successive FIFA World Cup finals for the third time. Coach Zlatco Kranjcar helped the Croatian team qualify in style. They finished top in the European qualifying Group 8. The Croatian team had seven wins in ten matches in their kitty. The most remarkable victory was over Sweden.
Croatia lost a two-goal lead in the home-draw with Bulgaria. Then Croatia had four consecutive victories in its kitty between March and June 2005. But soon they had to face a 1-1 draw in Malta.
After Croatia gained independence in 1991 from former Yugoslavia, it joined FIFA the following year. After Croatia was admitted to international competitions organized by UEFA and FIFA, Croatia have qualified for five out of six major tournaments. Croatia Map
Croatia enjoys a good qualifying record. The Croats have never been beaten in a competitive game at home.
Croatia was in Group 8, a competitive one. The Croatia Soccer Team emerged as the best in that group amongst Sweden, Hungary, Bulgaria, Iceland and Malta. Croatia had two 1-0 wins over Sweden in its kitty. The best Croatian side is said to be the one of the nineties, when Davor Suker, Zyonimir Boban, Robert Prosinecki and Robert Jani were the key players. With them the team earned a third place at the 1998 World Cup. This season the players to watch out are midfielder Luka Modric and frontman Dado Prso.
In the France World Cup, Croatia reached the semi-finals, which included a 3-0 quarterfinal victory over Germany. But the side lost to France in the semi-finals. The team was named FIFA's "Best Mover of the Year" in 1994 and 1998.
Croatia will be facing Brazil in Berlin and they'll have to put a brave fight.
Serbia Montenegro - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Ilija Petkovic
Goalkeepers:
Dragoslav Jevric, Oliver Kovacevic, Vladimir Stojkovic.
Defenders:
Ivica Dragutinovic, Nemanja Vidic, Goran Gavrancic, Dusan Basta, Nenad Djordjevic, Milan Dudic, Mladen Krstajic.
Midfielders:
Ivan Ergic, Igor Duljaj, Ognjen Koroman, Dejan Stankovic, Predrag Djordjevic, Albert Nadj, Zvonimir Vukic, Sasa Ilic.
Forwards:
Mateja Kezman, Savo Milosevic, Mirko Vucinic, Nikola Zigic, Danijel Ljuboja.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Dragoslav Jevric
2- Ivan Ergic
3- Ivica Dragutinovic
4- Igor Duljaj
5- Nemanja Vidic
6- Goran Gavrancic
7- Ognjen Koroman
8- Mateja Kezman
9- Savo Milosevic
10- Dejan Stankovic
11- Predrag Djordjevic
12- Oliver Kovacevic
13- Dusan Basta
14- Nenad Djordjevic
15- Milan Dudic
16- Mirko Vucinic
17- Albert Nadj
18- Zvonimir Vukic
19- Nikola Zigic
20- Mladen Krstajic
21- Danijel Ljuboja
22- Sasa Ilic
23- Vladimir Stojkovic
Serbia and Montenegro are playing in Group C along with Argentina, Cote d'Ivoire and the Netherlands. The team is nicknamed Plavi or the Blues. They have participated in the World Cup seven times when they were a part of Yugoslavia. This is Serbia and Montenegro's debut in World Cup Finals. She was in Group 7 of the European qualifying zone with stiff competition from Spain, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Belgium. Serbia and Montenegro was one of the eight European teams that remained undefeated throughout the qualifying campaign. The team won six matches and four matches were drawn and conceded only one goal.
Until 2003, Serbia and Montenegro played under the banner of Yugoslavia. In their very first appearance at the World Cup in 1930, they made it to the semi-finals. In June 2003, they lost to Azerbaijan in the preliminary stage of UEFA EURO 2004. After this coach Illija Petkovic was called back. In his second stint he laid strong foundations for future success of the team. His focus was mainly on building a strong defence.
The star players of Plavi are Kezman, Dejan Stankovic and the experienced Osasuna hitman Savo Milosevic. The team can boast of Europe's best defensive line. Much of the credit of their outstanding performances goes to keeper Dragoslav Jevric and captain Mladen Krstajic.
Coach Petkovic is quite hopeful that balanced team will put forth a commendable performance in their FIFA Finals debut.
Czech Republic - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Karel Bruckner
Goalkeepers:
Petr Cech, Milan Baros, Antonin Kinsky.
Defenders:
Zdenek Grygera, Pavel Mares, Radoslav Kovac, Marek Jankulovski, Martin Jiranek, Tomas Ujfalusi, David Rozehnal.
Midfielders:
Tomas Galasek , Vladimir Smicer, Tomas Rosicky Pavel Nedved, David Jarolim, Jan Polak, Jaroslav Plasil.
Forwards:
Jan Koller, Vratislav Lokvenc, Milan Baros, Jiri Stajner, Marek Heinz.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Petr Cech
2- Zdenek Grygera
3- Pavel Mares
4- Tomas Galasek
5- Radoslav Kovac
6- Marek Jankulovski
7- Vladimir Smicer
8- Karel Poborsky
9- Jan Koller
10- Tomas Rosicky
11- Pavel Nedved
12- Vratislav Lokvenc
13- Martin Jiranek
14- David Jarolim
15- Milan Baros
16- Jaromir Blazek
17- Jiri Stajner
18- Marek Heinz
19- Jan Polak
20- Jaroslav Plasil
21- Tomas Ujfalusi
22- David Rozehnal
23- Antonin Kinsky
Czech Republic Soccer Team is playing in team E along with Italy, Ghana and USA. It is the first World Cup finals for the Czech Republic.
As Chechoslovakia the country took part in eight world cups. The country finished as loosing finalists in 1934 and 1962.
A 1-0 play-off over Norway helped Czech Republic book a place at The FIFA World Cup, Germany 2006. In European Qualifying Group 1, their 27 points helped them secure a second place behind Netherlands. They were two points ahead of Romania.
Unfortunately in 2001, Czech Republic lost to Belgium and could not play in the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan. This time they made no such mistake and defeated the Norwegians both home and away. Czech republic was the only team not to drop a point in the group stages. They scored wins against Germany and Netherlands. Their performance was considered one of the highlights of the tournament. It is hoped that they'll put forward a similar performance this 2006 FIFA World Cup.
In the qualifying group matches Jan Koller was the second highest scorer with a total of nine goals. Milan Baros, Tomas Rosicky and goalkeeping star Petr Cech put forth fine performances in the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Experienced players such as Koller, Nedved and Karel Poborsky are also there to back-up the team.
The Czech Republic is being narrowly favored to join Italy as two qualifiers from Group E. Czech republic will be facing Americans in Gelsenkirchen on June 12th.
South Korea - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Dick Advocaat
Goalkeepers:
Woon Jae Lee, Yong Dae Kim, Young Kwang Kim.
Defenders:
Young Chul Kim, Dong Jin Kim, Jin Cheul Choi, Jin Kyu Kim, Chong Gug Song, Won Hee Cho.
Midfielders:
Nam Il Kim, Ji Sung Park, Do Heon Kim, Eul Yong Lee, Ji Hoon Baek, Ho Lee, Sang Sik Kim.
Forwards:
Jung Hwan Ahn, Chu Young Park, Ki Hyeon Seol, Chun Soo Lee, Kyung Ho Chung, Jae Jin Cho.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Woon Jae Lee
2- Young Chul Kim
3- Dong Jin Kim
4- Jin Cheul Choi
5- Nam Il Kim
6- Jin Kyu Kim
7- Ji Sung Park
8- Do Heon Kim
9- Jung Hwan Ahn
10- Chu Young Park
11- Ki Hyeon Seol
12- Young Pyo Lee
13- Eul Yong Lee
14- Chun Soo Lee
15- Ji Hoon Baek
16- Kyung Ho Chung
17- Ho Lee
18- Sang Sik Kim
19- Jae Jin Cho
20- Yong Dae Kim
21- Young Kwang Kim
22- Chong Gug Song
23- Won Hee Cho
South Korea Soccer Team is playing in Group G along with France, Switzerland and Togo. South Korea has participated in the World Cup six times in 1954, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998 and 2002.
In the 2002 FIFA World Cup, South Korea reached the semi-finals, an incredible achievement. In their group match, they defeated the highly fancied Portugal. In the Round of 16, the South Korea Soccer Team played against Italy and claimed an electrifying 2-1 victory from Jung Hwan Ahn's golden goal. Against Spain in the quarter-final, the match was decided by penalty shootouts, which they won. They lost 1-0 to Germany in the semi-final. Eventually South Korea came fourth in the championship and were awarded the 'FIFA Award for the Most Entertaining Team'.
South Korea is undoubtedly the most successful soccer-playing nation in Asia. This time it is South Korea's sixth successive World Cup appearance. In their final qualifying round for Germany 2006, South Korea Soccer Teama opened with a home win over Kuwait in February 2005. Then they lost to Saudi Arabia 2-0 in Saudi Arabia in their second match on 25 March 2005. They defeated Uzbekistan 2-1 in Seoul and drew 1-1 in the away match. A 4-0 home win over Kuwait secured their place in the World Cup finals. South Korea suffered a 1-0 home loss to Saudi Arabia in their final qualifier in August 2005. Following this coach Bonfrere resigned. At the moment Dick Advocaat of Netherlands is the coach of the South Korea Soccer Team.
Ji Sung Park (midfielder), Young Pyo Lee (left-back) and goalkeeper Woon Jae Lee are players there to back the team. Another player to watch is Chu Young Park, who scored twice in his three qualifying appearances. Coach Dick Advocaat knows that this time it's a big challenge and the South Korean fans have a lot of expectations.
Ecuador - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Luis Fernando Suarez
Goalkeepers:
Edwin Villafuerte, Cristian Mora, Damian Lanza.
Defenders:
Jorge Guagua, Ivan Hurtado, Ulises De la Cruz, Jose Luis Perlaza, Paul Ambrossi, Giovanny Espinoza, Neicer Reasco.
Midfielders:
Patricio Urrutia, Christian Lara, Edison Mendez, Segundo Castillo, Marlon Ayovi, Luis Antonio Valencia, Luis Fernando Saritama, Edwin Tenorio.
Forwards:
Felix Borja, Ivan Kaviedes, Agustin Delgado, Carlos Tenorio, Christian Benitez.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Edwin Villafuerte
2- Jorge Guagua
3- Ivan Hurtado
4- Ulises De la Cruz
5- Jose Luis Perlaza
6- Patricio Urrutia
7- Christian Lara
8- Edison Mendez
9- Felix Borja
10- Ivan Kaviedes
11- Agustin Delgado
12- Cristian Mora
13- Paul Ambrossi
14- Segundo Castillo
15- Marlon Ayovi
16- Luis Antonio Valencia
17- Giovanny Espinoza
18- Neicer Reasco
19- Luis Fernando Saritama
20- Edwin Tenorio
21- Carlos Tenorio
22- Damian Lanza
23- Christian Benitez
Ecuador Soccer Team will be playing in Group A along with Germany, Costa Rica and Poland. It's the second successive World Cup for Ecuador. Last time Ecuador participated in the world cup in the year 2002.
Ecuador Soccer Team sealed a place in the finals with a game in hand with a home draw against Uruguay. In July 2004 Hernan Dario Gomez stepped down seeing the dismal performance in seven qualifying games. Gomez led the team to their first FIFA World Cup participation in Korea/Japan.
Under the guidance of new coach Suarez, Ecuador secured qualification. Ecuador had an enviable home record in its kitty with 23 points. Ecuador's overall qualifying record was eight wins, four draws and six defeats with 23 goals for and 19 against.
It was not expected that Ecuador would cross the knockout phase. Edison Mendez's goal helped in getting a 1-0 win over Croatia.
Equador was at the 71st position in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. After securing their place in Germany finals, their rank went up to 30s. They secured a win against Brazil as well. Suarez successfully blended the youth and experience of his team and is training them to improvise on four-year old achievements.
Forward Augustin Delgardo is a player to watch this FIFA season. Equador's hope of success depends on Young performers like Christian Lara, Luis Valencia and Franklin Salas. The country is also banking on the experience of Ulises de La Cruz, Ivan Hurtado, Mendez and Agustin Delgado. Luiz Fernandez Suarez is the coach of the team and Ivan Hurtado is the captain.
It might be tough for Equador to qualify for the last 16 but surprise wins are always there. Ecuador won their first World Cup game last time by defeating Croatia. The fans of 'Los Tricolors' have high expectations from their team this time.
Spain - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Luis Aragones
Goalkeepers:
Iker Casillas, Santiago Canizares, Jose Manuel Reina.
Defenders:
Michel Salgado, Asier Del Horno, Carlos Marchena, Carlos Puyol, Guerrero Antonio Lopez, Sergio Ramos, Gutierrez Juanito, Ibanez Pablo.
Midfielders:
David Albelda, Hernandez Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, Marcos Senna, Sanchez Joaquin, Cesc Fabregas.
Forwards:
Gonzalez Raul, Fernando Torres, Jose Antonio Reyes, Sanz Luis Garcia, David Villa.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Iker Casillas
2- Michel Salgado
3- Asier Del Horno
4- Carlos Marchena
5- Carlos Puyol
6- David Albelda
7- Gonzalez Raul
8- Hernandez Xavi
9- Fernando Torres
10- Jose Antonio Reyes
11- Sanz Luis Garcia
12- Guerrero Antonio Lopez
13- Andres Iniesta
14- Xabi Alonso
15- Sergio Ramos
16- Marcos Senna
17- Sanchez Joaquin
18- Cesc Fabregas
19- Santiago Canizares
20- Gutierrez Juanito
21- David Villa
22- Ibanez Pablo
23- Jose Manuel Reina
Spain Soccer Team is playing in Group H along with Ukraine, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. The Spain Soccer is nicknamed La Furia. It has participated in the World Cup eleven times. But this time in Spain qualifying campaign was not very spectacular. Spain Soccer was in Group 7 alongwith Serbia and Montenegro, San Marino, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Lithuania. With not so fierce competition everyone was sure that Spain would top the group.
But the Serbia-Montenegro emerged as the Group winners. Spain as one of the six European runner-ups was paired with Slovakia in a play-off for the World Cup finals spot. A hat-trick from Luis Garcia and one goal each from Fernando Morientes and Fernando Torres helped Spain in defeating Slovakia 5-1 in the first leg of the play-offs. Four days later Spain suffered a 1-1 draw, but they had qualified for the finals.
This time it is Spain's eighth consecutive appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals and all in all it can be said that this time in Spain was celebration time. In 1974 they could not qualify for the Finals. Coincidentally, in that year the world cup was held on German soil. Spain's best performance at the FIFA World Cup was at Brazil in 1950. They finished at the fourth place.
Spain Soccer Team has been unlucky twice at the last-16 stage when they fell at USA 94 and again at South Korea/Japan 2002.
Coach Luis Aragones has rejuvenated his team by bringing in young players. The midfield duties have been assigned to Hernandez Xavi and Xabi Alonso. The pair of strikers Raul Gonzalez and Fernando Torres scored ten out of Spain's 25 qualifying goals (including the play-offs). Garcia, Iker Casillas, Michel Salgado, Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos and Asier del Horno are players to watch this FIFA season.
Spain's performance under coach Aragones has been noteworthy. Captain Gonzalez Raul is confident that with such a rich combination of players they will definitely leave a mark in Germany 2006.
Sweden - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Lars Lagerback
Goalkeepers:
Andreas Isaksson, John Alvbage, Rami Shaaban.
Defenders:
Mikael Nilsson, Olof Mellberg, Teddy Lucic, Erik Edman, Petter Hansson, Fredrik Stenman, Karl Svensson.
Midfielders:
Tobias Linderoth, Niclas Alexandersson, Anders Svensson, Freddie Ljungberg, Kim Kallstrom, Johan Elmander, Mattias Jonson, Daniel Andersson, Christian Wilhelmsson.
Forwards:
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrik Larsson, Marcus Allback, Markus Rosenberg.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Andreas Isaksson
2- Mikael Nilsson
3- Olof Mellberg
4- Teddy Lucic
5- Erik Edman
6- Tobias Linderoth
7- Niclas Alexandersson
8- Anders Svensson
9- Freddie Ljungberg
10- Zlatan Ibrahimovic
11- Henrik Larsson
12- John Alvbage
13- Petter Hansson
14- Fredrik Stenman
15- Karl Svensson
16- Kim Kallstrom
17- Johan Elmander
18- Mattias Jonson
19- Daniel Andersson
20- Marcus Allback
21- Christian Wilhelmsson
22- Markus Rosenberg
23- Rami Shaaban
Sweden Team is playing in Group B along with England, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago. Sweden has participated in the World Cup ten times. This time the Sweden Team qualified as one of the two best runners-up in European qualifying. Sweden won eight out of their ten qualifying matches. They were a part of Group 8. They averaged exactly three goals a game and conceded just four goals. They suffered two defeats from Croatia and had to settle for the second place.
Forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic played a crucial role in Sweden's qualification. He scored seven goals. His four-goal haul in the 7-0 victory in Malta was outstanding. Fredrik Ljungberg scored seven goals and Henrik Larsson scored four goals.
In its past World Cup appearances, Sweden Team has celebrated notable success. In the 1938 finals, they were the semi-finalists. They also won the Olympic Football Gold in 1948. The trio of Gunnar Gren, Nils Liedholm and Gunnar Nordahl led their team to the finals of the 1958 World Cup hosted in Sweden, but Brazil defeated them in the finals.
The Swedes put forth a decent performance at USA 94, where they came third. In South Korea/Japan 2002 World Cup, they reached the second round where they topped the group including England and Argentina.
Coach Lars Lagerback is associated with the Swedish team since 1998 when Coach Tommy Soderberg made him the assistant coach. In 2000 he was made co-coach and after EURO 2004 when Soderberg stepped down, Lagerback became the sole coach of the Swedish team.
Captain Olof Mellberg, Ljungberg, Larrson, Ibrahimovic and Christian Wilhelmsson are the players to watch.
France - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Raymond Domenech
Goalkeepers:
Mickael Landreau, Fabien Barthez, Gregory Coupet.
Defenders:
Jean Alain Boumsong, Eric Abidal, William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre, Lilian Thuram, Gael Givet, Willy Sagnol, Pascal Chimbonda.
Midfielders:
Patrick Vieira, Claude Makelele, Florent Malouda, Vikash Dhorasoo, Zinedine Zidane, Alou Diarra.
Forwards:
Djibril Cisse, Sylvain Wiltord, Louis Saha, David Trezeguet, Frank Ribery.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Mickael Landreau
2- Jean Alain Boumsong
3- Eric Abidal
4- Patrick Vieira
5- William Gallas
6- Claude Makelele
7- Florent Malouda
8- Vikash Dhorasoo
9- Djibril Cisse
10- Zinedine Zidane
11- Sylvain Wiltord
12- Thierry Henry
13- Mikael Silvestre
14- Louis Saha
15- Lilian Thuram
16- Fabien Barthez
17- Gael Givet
18- Alou Diarra
19- Willy Sagnol
20- David Trezeguet
21- Pascal Chimbonda
22- Frank Ribery
23- Gregory Coupet
France Soccer Team is playing in Group G along with Switzerland, South Korea and Togo. France, founder members of FIFA, have participated in the World Cup 11 times. Les Bleus came third in the 1958 World Cup. France Soccer Team came fourth in 1982 and third in 1986. They won the European Championship in 1984.
The late 1990s were the most successful years of France. The team then played in semifinals of Euro 96. Two years later it hosted and won the 1998 World Cup defeating the favorites, Brazil 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup Finals. It also won the Euro 2000.
The team was ranked as the favorites but their performance in the 2002 World Cup was dismal. In that World Cup, France did not win a single game and did not score any goal. In Euro 2004, the France Soccer Team was beaten in the quarterfinals by Greece, the eventual Euro 2004 champion.
In Sweden in 1958, Fontaine scored 13 goals in the tournament, a record, which remains unbroken till date. France was defeated twice by Germany in consecutive semi-finals, first in Spain in 1982 and then in Mexico in 1986. Over the past years France has witnessed a rough patch as far as soccer is concerned.
This time Les Bleus was in a tough qualifying group. They put forth fighting performances and emerged at the top of the Group. Definitely France is a team to watch this season, with players like Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, Claude Makelele and Sylvain Wiltord.
Switzerland - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Jakob 'Kobi' Kuhn
Goalkeepers:
Pascal Zuberbuehler, Diego Benaglio, Fabio Coltorti.
Defenders:
Johan Djourou, Ludovic Magnin, Philippe Senderos, Stephane Grichting, Christoph Spycher, Valon Behrami, Patrick Mueller, Philipp Degen.
Midfielders:
Xavier Margairaz, Johann Vogel, Ricardo Cabanas, Raphael Wicky, Daniel Gygax, David Degen, Blerim Dzemaili, Tranquillo Barnetta.
Forwards:
Alexander Frei, Marco Streller, Mauro Lustrinelli, Johan Vonlanthen.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Pascal Zuberbuehler
2- Johan Djourou
3- Ludovic Magnin
4- Philippe Senderos
5- Xavier Margairaz
6- Johann Vogel
7- Ricardo Cabanas
8- Raphael Wicky
9- Alexander Frei
10- Daniel Gygax
11- Marco Streller
12- Diego Benaglio
13- Stephane Grichting
14- David Degen
15- Blerim Dzemaili
16- Tranquillo Barnetta
17- Christoph Spycher
18- Mauro Lustrinelli
19- Valon Behrami
20- Patrick Mueller
21- Fabio Coltorti
22- Johan Vonlanthen
23- Philipp Degen
Switzerland Soccer team is playing in Group G along with France, South Korea and Togo. Switzerland has participated in the World Cup seven times. Switzerland failed to qualify for France 98 and South Korea/Japan 2002. But this FIFA season they have secured a place in the finals. The Swiss team has reached the World Cup quarterfinals in 1934, 1938 and 1954.
Jakob 'Kobi' Kuhn has been the coach of the side since 2001. Under his able guidance, the team defeated Turkey 2-0 in the home play-off between the European runners-up. In the away match, they lost 4-2 in Istanbul; the aggregate result was 4-4, and Switzerland qualified on the basis of the away goals scored. In their last finals appearance at USA 1994, the Swiss reached the round of sixteen. They were defeated 3-0 by Spain.
In fact, the Swiss team remained undefeated for one full year and 14 straight games until they were defeated in a second-leg play-off by Turkey in Instanbul on 16 Nov 2005.
Under coach Kuhn's guidance, the Swiss team remained undefeated in their qualifying campaign in European Group 4. They had a total of 18 points from 4 wins and 6 draws. Johann Vogel is the captain of the team. The team blends youth and experience beautifully. Veteran keeper Pascal Zuberbuehler, midfielders Raphael Wicky, Tranquillo Barnetta and defender Philippe Senderos are the players to watch. Germany 2006 provides Switzerland the perfect opportunity to prove their worth and put forth an enthralling performance for all its fans.
German - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Jurgen Klinsmann
Goalkeepers:
Jens Lehmann, Oliver Kahn, Timo Hildebrand.
Defenders:
Marcell Jansen, Arne Friedrich, Robert Huth, Jens Nowotny, Philip Lahm, Per Mertesacker, Christoph Metzelder.
Midfielders:
Sebastian Kehl, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Torsten Frings, Michael Ballack, Thomas Hitzlsperger, Tim Borowski, Bernd Schneider, David Odonkor.
Forwards:
Mike Hanke, Oliver Neuville, Miroslav Klose, Lukas Podolski.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Jens Lehmann
2- Marcell Jansen
3- Arne Friedrich
4- Robert Huth
5- Sebastian Kehl
6- Jens Nowotny
7- Bastian Schweinsteiger
8- Torsten Frings
9- Mike Hanke
10- Oliver Neuville
11- Miroslav Klose
12- Oliver Kahn
13- Michael Ballack
14- Gerald Asamoah
15- Thomas Hitzlsperger
16- Philip Lahm
17- Per Mertesacker
18- Tim Borowski
19- Bernd Schneider
20- Lukas Podolski
21- Christoph Metzelder
22- David Odonkor
23- Timo Hildebrand
GERMANY (GER) Germany played in Group A along with Costa Rica, Poland and Ecuador. Germany has been ranked at number 19 by FIFA. The German Team is undoubtedly one of the greatest football nations of the world. Germans can boast of an outstanding record of success. They have three world titles in their kitty. They are one of the greatest football nations of the world. Except for the inaugural 1930 World Cup and the 1950 tournament, a German team has played in every FIFA World Cup finals.
The then West Germany won the World Cup for the first time in 1954 when they defeated Hungary 3-2 in the final in the Wankdorf Stadium in Bern, Switzerland. Players Fritz Walter, Helmut Rahn became idols for German soccer fans. In 1974 again they won the cup on home grounds. 'Kaiser' Beckenbauer captained the side to a 2-1victory over Netherlands.
West Germany suffered successive defeats in the finals of Spain 1982 (they lost 3-1 to Italy) and in Mexico 1986 (they lost 3-2 to Argentina). Soon the third World Cup triumph came for the German Team in Italy 1990. In the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals in South Korea/Japan, Germany bounced back with a remarkable performance but lost 2-0 to Brazil in the Finals and came Runners up.
The Germans put forth a dismal performance at EURO 2004 in Portugal. The hosts appear to be in poor shape this time. Germany lost to both Turkey and Italy in recent warm-up games. It had draws with Holland and France. It's been long since England defeated a "big" team. England defeated Germany at Wembley in 2002 World Cup.
Before World Cup 2002 in South Korea/Japan, German Team was in a poor shape. But the team surprised everyone by reaching the final against Brazil. Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski put forth an impressive performance in the FIFA Confederations Cup 2005. Captain Michael Ballack, Jens Lehmann and Lukas Podolski were the players to watch out in the 2006 World Cup.
The Germans always had magical stuff in store not only for its supporters but also for football fans everywhere. World Cup 2006 FIFA season was no exception and Germany was the host this time. Taking benefit on playing in the home field, Germany could reach upto semi-finals, but was pipped by Italy in a memorable game. Germany finally ensured the third place beating Portugal in losers' final.
England - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Sven Goran Eriksson
Goalkeepers:
Paul Robinson, David James, Robert Green.
Defenders:
Gary Neville, Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Sol Campbell, Wayne Bridge, Jamie Carragher.
Midfielders:
David Beckham, Joe Cole, Aaron Lennon, Stewart Downing, Owen Hargreaves, Jermaine Jenas, Michael Carrick, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard.
Forwards:
Wayne Rooney, Michael Owen, Peter Crouch, Theo Walcott.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Paul Robinson
2- Gary Neville
3- Ashley Cole
4- Steven Gerrard
5- Rio Ferdinand
6- John Terry
7- David Beckham
8- Frank Lampard
9- Wayne Rooney
10- Michael Owen
11- Joe Cole
12- Sol Campbell
13- David James
14- Wayne Bridge
15- Jamie Carragher
16- Owen Hargreaves
17- Jermaine Jenas
18- Michael Carrick
19- Aaron Lennon
20- Stewart Downing
21- Peter Crouch
22- Robert Green
23- Theo Walcott
England Football Team is playing in Group B along with Paraguay, Trinidad and Tobago and Sweden. England, the World Cup champions of 1966 is called the first nation of football and the global distributor of the sport. This 2006 tournament marks four decades since England won it's only World Cup against Germany.
This time under the able guidance of Coach Sven-Goran Erikson, everyone is banking on England as one of the contenders for the Cup this year. They opened with a 2-2 draw in Austria, won six games after suffering a 1-0 loss to Northern Ireland. England suffered a 4-1 friendly defeat in Denmark. Later England secured home victories over Austria and Poland. England secured first place in Group 6. It had eight victories and one defeat in ten matches.
Previously, England Soccer Team made eleven previous FIFA World Cup™ final appearances. They debuted in Brazil in 1950. After winning the cup in 1966, England traveled to the semi-finals in 1990. Unfortunately they lost on penalties to West Germany. In 1998, Korea/Japan World Cup they were losing the quarterfinals for the fifth time. In 2000, at the UEFA European Championship in Portugal, England was beaten on penalties by the hosts.
The players to watch from the England team include Wayne Rooney, striker Owen and the midfield trio of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.
Wayne Rooney has suffered a foot injury and is struggling to make it to the finals. Being in Group B, English fans can keep their hopes high for their team's chances.
The English fans have a lot of expectations from their team this time and are hopeful that the team will live up to it.
Togo - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Otto Pfister
Goalkeepers:
Ouro Nimini Tchagnirou, Kossi Agassa, Kodjovi Obilale.
Defenders:
Dare Nibombe, Jean Paul Abalo, Ludovic Assemoassa, Karim Guede, Assimiou Toure, Richmond Forson, Massamasso Tchangai, Kuami Agboh, Eric Akoto, Affo Erassa
Midfielders:
Yao Aziawonou, Thomas Dossevi, Cherif Toure Mamam, Adekanmi Olufade, Alaixys Romao, Yao Junior Senaya.
Forwards:
Emmanuel Adebayor, Moustapha Salifou Robert Malm, Mohamed Kader.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Ouro Nimini Tchagnirou
2- Dare Nibombe
3- Jean Paul Abalo
4- Emmanuel Adebayor
5- Massamasso Tchangai
6- Yao Aziawonou
7- Moustapha Salifou
8- Kuami Agboh
9- Thomas Dossevi
10- Cherif Toure Mamam
11- Robert Malm
12- Eric Akoto
13- Richmond Forson
14- Adekanmi Olufade
15- Alaixys Romao
16- Kossi Agassa
17- Mohamed Kader
18- Yao Junior Senaya
19- Ludovic Assemoassa
20- Affo Erassa
21- Karim Guede
22- Kodjovi Obilale
23- Assimiou Toure
Togo Soccer Team is playing in Group G along with France, Switzerland and South Korea. It's a time to celebrate for the soccer fans of Togo as the country will be playing in the world cup for the first time. The team of Togo is nicknamed the Hawks.
Togo Soccer Team was defeated 1-0 by Equatorial Guinea in 2003. They won the return leg in Lome and entered the group stage of the qualifiers. In Group 1 of Africa Zone, they suffered a defeat in the very first qualifying match against Zambia in the away match on 5 June, 2004. But, fifteen days later, Togo had a 3-1 triumph over the group favorites Senegal, and they never looked back after that. They topped their group with seven wins, two draws and one loss with Senegal second, two points behind them. They had drawn with Senegal in the away match held in Dakar on 18 June, 2005. It was a remarkable achievement for the underdog.
Togo reached the CAF African Cup of Nations finals five times. Strikers Emmanuel Adebayor was born in Nigeria, but have opted to represent Togo. He is the top scorer in the African qualifying matches with 11 goals to his credit.
The Hawks will make the most of their first FIFA World Cup appearance and the fans are hopeful that they will come out with flying colors.
Ghana - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Ratomir Djukovic
Goalkeepers:
Sammy Adjei, George Owu, Richard Kingston.
Defenders:
Hans Adu Sarpei, Samuel Osei Kuffour, John Mensah, Emmanuel Addoquaye Pappoe, Illiasu Shilla, Habib Mohamed, John Pantsil, Daniel Quaye, Issah Ahmed.
Midfielders:
Michael Essien, Derek Boateng, Stephen Appiah, Sulley Ali Muntari, Eric Addo, Otto Addo, Haminu Dramani.
Forwards:
Asamoah Gyan, Alex Tachie Mensah, Matthew Amoah, Razak Pimpong.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Sammy Adjei
2- Hans Adu Sarpei
3- Asamoah Gyan
4- Samuel Osei Kuffour
5- John Mensah
6- Emmanuel Addoquaye Pappoe
7- Illiasu Shilla
8- Michael Essien
9- Derek Boateng
10- Stephen Appiah
11- Sulley Ali Muntari
12- Alex Tachie Mensah
13- Habib Mohamed
14- Matthew Amoah
15- John Pantsil
16- George Owu
17- Daniel Quaye
18- Eric Addo
19- Razak Pimpong
20- Otto Addo
21- Issah Ahmed
22- Richard Kingston
23- Haminu Dramani
Ghana playing in Group E along with Italy, USA and Czech Republic. The team is popularly known as Black Stars. It's a big opportunity for Ghana this time as they have qualified for their first FIFA World Cup Finals. The Black stars have been enjoying tremendous success at the youth level. They won the World Under-17 title twice. The Ghana team also secured the second position at the world youth championship. Ghana has been four times African Cup of Nations' winners (1963, 1965, 1978 and 1982). Ghana marks their first appearance in the FIFA World Cup.
Ghana qualified quite comfortably with a victory over Somalia. They had a 7-0 aggregate success that sent them into the group stage. In Group 2, they had a draw with 2010 FIFA World Cup hosts South Africa. When they started their campaign they suffered a 1-0 defeat in Burkina Faso. They defeated South Africa 3-0 in Kumasi in June, 2004.
Ghana topped their Group for the first time in September 2004. They defeated Cape-Verde Islands 2-0 in Kumasi. Coach Mariano Barreto quit and this created instability. Serbian Ratomir Dujkovic took charge in late 2004. Under his guidance, the team had a draw against Congo DR. In June 2005, they defeated Burkina Faso 2-1 on home grounds. A 2-0 success in South Africa restored them to the top of the group. A 4-0 victory over Cape Verde in Praia helped Ghana get a place in the FIFA World Cup Finals.
In the past Ghana has produced some of Africa's most talented footballers such as Osei Koffi, Abdulrazak Karim, Ben Acheampong, George Al Hasan, Abedi Pele and Anthony Yeboah.
Ghana has a formidable-midfield comprising of Captain Appiah, Michael Essien and Sulley Ali Muntari. Ghana team has set their goals high and the young bunch is a disciplined and focused one. The fans out there in Ghana have high hopes from their team.
Trinidad And Tobago - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Leo Beenhakker
Goalkeepers:
Shaka Hislop, Kelvin Jack, Clayton Ince.
Defenders:
Ian Cox, Avery John, Marvin Andrews, Brent Sancho, Dennis Lawrence, Cyd Gray, Atiba Charles.
Midfielders:
Christopher Birchall, Aurtis Whitley, Russell Latapy, Carlos Edwards, Silvio Spann, Densill Theobold, Dwight Yorke, Anthony Wolfe.
Forwards:
Collin Samuel, Cornell Glenn, Stern John, Kenwyne Jones, Jason Scotland.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Shaka Hislop
2- Ian Cox
3- Avery John
4- Marvin Andrews
5- Brent Sancho
6- Dennis Lawrence
7- Christopher Birchall
8- Cyd Gray
9- Aurtis Whitley
10- Russell Latapy
11- Carlos Edwards
12- Collin Samuel
13- Cornell Glenn
14- Stern John
15- Kenwyne Jones
16- Silvio Spann
17- Atiba Charles
18- Densill Theobold
19- Dwight Yorke
20- Jason Scotland
21- Kelvin Jack
22- Clayton Ince
23- Anthony Wolfe
Trinidad And Tobago Soccer Team is playing in Group B along with England, Paraguay and Sweden. It is time for the team to celebrate as they'll be playing for the first time in the World Cup. They are nicknamed the Soca Warriors. They had a poor start to their qualifying campaign. So Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker was roped in to help them reach their first-ever finals. Dwight Yorke will be captaining the side.
In the group series the Trinidad And Tobago Soccer Team first played Dominican Republic. In the next phase they played the mighty Mexicans. They lost both the matches. But they made it to the final qualifying stage with a win over neighbours St Kitts & Nevis and St Vincent & the Grenadines. The Soca Warriors progressed to the Final Stage of the CONCACAF Zone, which included the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala.
They picked just one point from their first three matches. At this crucial juncture, the arrival of experienced Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker rejuvenated the team's spirits.
Under his guidance the Trinidad And Tobago Soccer Team got off to an amazing start with a 2-0 win over Panama. They were defeated 2-0 by Mexico in Mexico. Next, the Soca Warriors were defeated 1-0 in the USA. They then secured a nail-biting 3-2 win over direct rivals Guatemala. They were defeated 2-0 by Costa Rica in San Jose. They then defeated Panama 1-0. They went into their final game against CONCACAF superpowers Mexico. It was a very crucial match for them. They came out in flying colors and secured a 2-1 triumph in Port of Spain. This secured their place in a play-off with the Asian 5th placed team, Bahrain. In the home play-off they drew 1-1 and in the away play-off they won 1-0, thus qualifying for the World Cup finals in Germany.
In 1989, the Soca Warriors were just a game away from the FIFA World Cup qualification. But unfortunately they suffered a 1-0 home defeat by the USA.
Trinidad and Tobago was the last team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup to be held in Germany. With their qualification coach Leo Beenhakker has become a legend for the fans in that nation. This FIFA World Cup is also special for the very reason that the country's best ever player, Dwight Yorke will get to represent the country at the highest level of soccer before he retires. Other players to watch are forward Stern John, Christopher Birchall and Russell Latapy.
This FIFA season the Soca Warriors will definitely bring some Caribbean colour to the FIFA World Cup.
Iran - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Branko Ivannkovic
Goalkeepers:
Ebrahim Mirzapour, Hassan Roudbarian, Vahid Talebloo.
Defenders:
Sohrab Bakhtiarizadeh, Yahya Golmohammadi, Rahman Rezaei, Hossein Kaabi, Sattar Zare, Mohammad Nosrati, Amir Hossein Sadeqi.
Midfielders:
Mehdi Mahdavikia, Javad Nekounam, Ferydoon Zandi, Ali Karimi, Andranik Teymourian, Javad Kazemeian, Mehrzad Madanchi.
Forwards:
Vahid Hashemian, Ali Daei, Rasoul Khatibi, Arash Borhani, Reza Enayati, Masoud Shojaei.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Ebrahim Mirzapour
2- Mehdi Mahdavikia
3- Sohrab Bakhtiarizadeh
4- Yahya Golmohammadi
5- Rahman Rezaei
6- Javad Nekounam
7- Ferydoon Zandi
8- Ali Karimi
9- Vahid Hashemian
10- Ali Daei
11- Rasoul Khatibi
12- Hassan Roudbarian
13- Hossein Kaabi
14- Andranik Teymourian
15- Arash Borhani
16- Reza Enayati
17- Javad Kazemeian
18- Sattar Zare
19- Amir Hossein Sadeqi
20- Mohammad Nosrati
21- Mehrzad Madanchi
22- Vahid Talebloo
23- Masoud Shojaei
Iran Soccer Team is playing in Group D along with Mexico, Angola and Portugal. The three time Asian Champions is a good blend of youth and experience. The team of Iran is nicknamed Team Melli.
In the preliminary round of the Asian Qualifying matches for Germany 2006, Iran Soccer Team was defeated 1-0 by Jordan in the away match. In the return home match with Jordan they emerged triumphant with a 2-0 win. Iran still topped its group with 5 wins and 1 loss and went into the Asian Qualifying final round in Group 2 alongwith Japan, Bahrain and North Korea.
Iran had a goalless draw in Bahrain. Vahid Hashemian struck both of Iran's goals leading the team to a 2-1 victory over Japan in March 2005. With this victory, Iran had a four-match winning streak. Iran lost their final Group 2 match in Tokyo in Aug 2005, but it did not make much difference as they had already secured their place in the Football World Cup Finals.
Iran, three times champions of Asia participated in their first world cup in 1978 in Argentina. They again participated in the World Cup of 1998 in France by eliminating Australia on away goals in a two-legged play-off. In France, they defeated United States of America 2-1 in Lyon. In 2001, Iran lost to the Republic of Ireland in the qualifying play-off and lost the opportunity for the second successive FIFA World Cup appearance.
Miroslav Blazevic stepped down after Iran Soccer Team could not qualify for 2002 South Korea/Japan match. Croatian coach Branko Ivannkovic took charge and guided the Iranian team to the first place in 2002 Asian Games. He introduced young players into the team and inculcated team spirit. He also persuaded Vahid Hashemian to join back.
Team Melli is being considered the best in Iranian football history. The players to watch are Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavika, Ali Daei and Vahid Hashemian.
Tunisia - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Roger Lemerre
Goalkeepers:
Ali Boumnijel, Adel Nefzi, Hamdi Kasraoui.
Defenders:
David Jemmali, Hatem Trabelsi, Mehdi Meriah, Anis Ayari, Alaeddine Yahia, Radhi Jaidi, Karim Haggui, Karim Saidi
Midfielders:
Jaouhar Mnari, Adel Chedli, Mehdi Nafti, Sofiane Melliti, Hamed Namouchi, Karim Essediri Yassine Chikhaoui, Riadh Bouazizi, Issam Jomaa, Kaies Ghodhbane.
Forwards:
Francileudo Santos, Zied Jaziri.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Ali Boumnijel
2- Karim Essediri
3- Karim Haggui
4- Alaeddine Yahia
5- Zied Jaziri
6- Hatem Trabelsi
7- Mehdi Meriah
8- Mehdi Nafti
9- Yassine Chikhaoui
10- Kaies Ghodhbane
11- Francileudo Santos
12- Jaouhar Mnari
13- Riadh Bouazizi
14- Adel Chedli
15- Radhi Jaidi
16- Adel Nefzi
17- Issam Jomaa
18- David Jemmali
19- Anis Ayari
20- Hamed Namouchi
21- Karim Saidi
22- Hamdi Kasraoui
23- Sofiane Melliti
Tunisia is playing in Group H along with Spain, Ukraine and Saudi Arabia. They have participated in the World Cup thrice in 1978, 1998 and 2002. The team of Tunisia is nicknamed Carthages Eagles. In 1978, Tunisia defeated Mexico 3-1 in their first group match and became the first African country to win a game at the finals of the FIFA World Cup. In the next match they were defeated 1-0 by Poland. They secured a goalless draw against Germany. They won a match with Mexico and secured a place in the history books.
In 1998, the Carthages Eagles lost to England and Colombia. They drew a match with Romania. In 2002 they lost to Russia and Japan. They had a draw with Belgium. It was only in 1978 that Tunisia won a match. They are awaiting their next victory in a World Cup final.
Tunisia was amongst the five African countries that played at South Korea/Japan 2002. For this reason, the Carthages Eagles were not required to play in the preliminary African qualifying rounds for the 2006 finals. Under the guidance of coach Roger Lemerre they successfully secured a place in the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006.
Carthages Eagles had won the CAF African Cup of Nations in Tunis in February 2004. In the final then the team defeated Morocco 2-1 at the Rades stadium and it enthralled all the fans out there.
In their qualifying match, Carthages Eagles encountered Morocco again. They were on top as far as performance was concerned even though both the matches ended in draws. In Rabat it was 1-1 and in Tunis it was 2-2.
The North Africans made it to the finals of Germany 2006 quite comfortably. They were defeated only once. They lost to Guinea 2-1. Tunisia had six wins and three draws. Ziad Jaziri, Santos, Adel Chadli and captain Hatem Trabelsi are the star players of the team. Tunisia has proved that they are a team to watch this FIFA season.
Japan - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Zico
Goalkeepers:
Seigo Narazaki, Yoichi Doi, Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi.
Defenders:
Makoto Tanaka, Yuichi Komano, Tsuneyasu Miyamoto, Koji Nakata, Alessandro Alex Santos, Keisuke Tsuboi, Akira Kaji, Yuji Nakazawa.
Midfielders:
Yasuhito Endo, Hidetoshi Nakata, Mitsuo Ogasawara, Takashi Fukunishi, Junichi Inamoto, Shinji Ono.
Forwards:
Naohiro Takahara, Seiichiro Maki, Atsushi Yanagisawa, Masashi Oguro, Keiji Tamada.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Seigo Narazaki
2- Makoto Tanaka
3- Yuichi Komano
4- Yasuhito Endo
5- Tsuneyasu Miyamoto
6- Koji Nakata
7- Hidetoshi Nakata
8- Mitsuo Ogasawara
9- Naohiro Takahara
10- Shunsuke Nakamura
11- Seiichiro Maki
12- Yoichi Doi
13- Atsushi Yanagisawa
14- Alessandro Alex Santos
15- Takashi Fukunishi
16- Masashi Oguro
17- Junichi Inamoto
18- Shinji Ono
19- Keisuke Tsuboi
20- Keiji Tamada
21- Akira Kaji
22- Yuji Nakazawa
23- Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi
Japan is playing in Group F along with Brazil, Croatia and Australia. Japan has participated in the world cup twice in 1998 and 2002. This time it is Japan's third successive FIFA World Cup finals. Japan was the first team after host Germany to qualify for the World Cup.
In the Asian Final Round of Qualifying matches in Group 2, Japan suffered a 2-1 defeat in Iran on 25 March 2005. Then Japan had victories over Bahrain in both the home and away matches. In Bangkok on 8 June, they defeated North Korea 2-0 and qualified for Germany 2006. Japan won its last match against Iran at home and finished at top of their group with 15 points.
In USA 94, Japan lost because of a dramatic last-minute Iraqi equalizer in Doha. In their FIFA World Cup debut in France 1998, Japan got eliminated in the first round itself. The team reached the second round in South Korea/ Japan 2002 after victories over Russia and Tunisia.
In the 2004 AFC Asian Cup, Japan defeated China 3-1 in the finals. Japan put forth a commendable display at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup.
It is believed that Japan has Asia's most formidable midfield line-up with Hidetoshi Nakata, Shunsuke Nakamura and Shinji Ono. Nakata has been awarded the player of the year award twice.
Asian soccer fans have high hopes that Japan will perform well in the opening match with Australia. This match is crucial for progressing in the group stages. Croatia, Australia and Japan all of them have equal chances of advancing.
USA - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Bruce Arena.
Captain
Claudio Reyna.
Goalkeepers:
Kasey Keller, Tim Howard, Marcus Hahnemann.
Defenders:
Carlos Bocanegra, Steve Cherundolo, Jimmy Conrad, Cory Gibbs, Chris Albright, Eddie Lewis, Oguchi Onyewu, Eddie Pope.
Midfielders:
DaMarcus Beasley, Bobby Convey, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Pablo Mastroeni,John O'Brien, Ben Olsen, Claudio Reyna.
Forwards:
Eddie Johnson, Brian McBride, Brian Ching, Josh Wolff.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Tim Howard
2- Chris Albright
3- Carlos Bocanegra
4- Pablo Mastroeni
5- John O'Brien
6- Steve Cherundolo
7- Eddie Lewis
8- Clint Dempsey
9- Eddie Johnson
10- Claudio Reyna
11- Brian Ching
12- Cory Gibbs
13- Jimmy Conrad
14- Ben Olsen
15- Bobby Convey
16- Josh Wolff
17- DaMarcus Beasley
18- Kasey Keller
19- Marcus Hahnemann
20- Brian McBride
21- Landon Donovan
22- Oguchi Onyewu
23- Eddie Pope
USA Soccer Team is playing in Group E along with Italy, Ghana and Czech Republic. USA has participated in the World Cup seven times and this time it is going to be USA's eighth appearance in the World Cup. This time it is the nation's fifth consecutive appearance on the world's biggest stage in Germany 2006. The team is nicknamed 'Stars and Stripes'.
The USA Soccer Team made it to the Semi-finals of Uruguay 1930 and to the quarterfinals of South Korea/Japan 2002. In 1950 World Cup hosted by Brazil, USA defeated the England 1-0. England, the originator of football were competing for the first time in the World Cup and were tipped to win. This FIFA season USA has to face stiff competition from three-time champions Italy. Coach Bruce Arena's team has 12 members from the team of 2002 World Cup. Experienced Brian McBride and Landon Donovan and the young Eddie Johnson are assets to the team.
USA Soccer Team played brilliantly in the qualifying matches. They qualified for the finals with three matches still to play in the final rounds of North, Central American and Caribbean qualifying zone. Though the team were defeated by fellow qualifiers Costa Rica, they finished top of the Group. USAUSA Soccer Team suffered only one defeat in their opening six final round matches. At this juncture US needed a home win against archrivals Mexico in the match scheduled on 3 September 2005. Steve Ralston and Beasley scored goals and led their team to victory in Crew Stadium. The fans celebrated their teams victory in style. The US team also secured a 2-0 win over Panama in Boston. In this match Taylor Twellman and Kyle Martino hit their first international goals.
Coach Arena said that all matches were difficult but his team's experience helped them in capitalizing over all situations.
In the 1990 World Cup in Italy the finished fourth in Group A, in 1994 USA World Cup they finished in the last 16 of the second round and in France 1998 they finished fourth in Group F. In South Korea/Japan 2002, they lost to Germany in the quarter-finals.
For the Stars and Stripes qualifying from Group E will be an achievement in itself.
Ukraine - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Oleg Blokhin
Goalkeepers:
Oleksandr Shovkovskiy, Andriy Pyatov, Bogdan Shust.
Defenders:
Andriy Nesmachniy, Serhiy Fedorov, Vladimir Yezerskiy, Andriy Rusol, Dmytro Chigrynskiy, Vladislav Vashchuk, Vyacheslav Sviderskiy.
Midfielders:
Anatoliy Tymoschuk, Oleg Shelayev, Oleg Gusev, Serhiy Rebrov, Andriy Gusin, Serhiy Nazarenko, Maksim Kalinichenko, Ruslan Rotan.
Forwards:
Andriy Shevchenko, Andriy Voronin, Artem Milevskiy, Andriy Vorobey, Oleksiy Byelik.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Oleksandr Shovkovskiy
2- Andriy Nesmachniy
3- Serhiy Fedorov
4- Anatoliy Tymoschuk
5- Vladimir Yezerskiy
6- Andriy Rusol
7- Andriy Shevchenko
8- Oleg Shelayev
9- Oleg Gusev
10- Andriy Voronin
11- Serhiy Rebrov
12- Andriy Pyatov
13- Dmytro Chigrynskiy
14- Andriy Gusin
15- Artem Milevskiy
16- Andriy Vorobey
17- Vladislav Vashchuk
18- Serhiy Nazarenko
19- Maksim Kalinichenko
20- Oleksiy Byelik
21- Ruslan Rotan
22- Vyacheslav Sviderskiy
23- Bogdan Shust
Ukraine is playing in Group H along with Spain, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. This FIFA season it's a big opportunity for Ukraine as the team is going to play its first FIFA World Cup.
Ukraine had almost made it to the World Cup twice. After the break-up of Soviet Union in 1991 the Football Federation of Ukraine was formed. Then the Ukraine national team entered a preliminary stage for FIFA World Cup finals in 1996/97 for the France 1998 World Cup. They secured second place in their group behind Germany. They were placed before Portugal and Northern Ireland. But they lost to Croatia in the play-offs and could not make it to France.
Similarly before South Korea/Japan 2002 they went down to play-offs with Germany.
As the team could not qualify for the UEFA EURO 2004, 1975 European Footballer of the Year, Oleg Blokhin joined in place of Leonid Buryak as the coach. He successfully led the East Europeans to a place in the finals at Germany.
Captain Andriy Shevchenko is the star player of the team. He is a world-class striker who was awarded the 2004 European Footballer of the Year award. Ukraine's fortunes depend on this player. Andriy Vorobey and Andrey Voronin along with Andriy Shevchenko form a deadly attacking line.
After the host Germany, Ukraine was the first European team to qualify for Germany 2006 on 03rd Sep 2005 when they had 24 points and the second placed team, Turkey was 7 points behind at 17 points and both had 2 matches still to play. Ukraine topped its Group with 7 wins, 4 draws and 1 lost match. Its only loss was to Turkey. The fans are hopeful that Ukraine will put up a great performance at FIFA World Cup 2006 in Germany.
Italy - Team for 2006 FIFA World Cup
Coach:
Marcello Lippi
Goalkeepers:
Gianluigi Buffon, Angelo Peruzzi, Marco Amelia.
Defenders:
Cristian Zaccardo, Fabio Grosso, Fabio Cannavaro, Andrea Barzagli, Alessandro Nesta, Gianluca Zambrotta, Massimo Oddo, Marco Materazzi.
Midfielders:
Daniele De Rossi, Gennaro Gattuso, Francesco Totti, Mauro German Camoranesi, Simone Barone, Simone Perrotta, Andrea Pirlo.
Forwards:
Alessandro Del Piero, Luca Toni, Alberto Gilardino, Vincenzo Iaquinta, Filippo Inzaghi.
Jersey No. Name of the Player
1- Gianluigi Buffon
2- Cristian Zaccardo
3- Fabio Grosso
4- Daniele De Rossi
5 Fabio Cannavaro
6- Andrea Barzagli
7- Alessandro Del Piero
8- Gennaro Gattuso
9- Luca Toni
10- Francesco Totti
11- Alberto Gilardino
12- Angelo Peruzzi
13- Alessandro Nesta
14- Marco Amelia
15- Vincenzo Iaquinta
16- Mauro German Camoranesi
17- Simone Barone
18- Filippo Inzaghi
19- Gianluca Zambrotta
20- Simone Perrotta
21- Andrea Pirlo
22- Massimo Oddo
23- Marco Materazzi
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