The 2006 World Cup in Germany
A booksmusicfilmstv.com surreal take on the footie fest in Germany
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Hosts Germany began their World Cup campaign in the Allianz Arena in a rather unexpected fashion.

After an opening ceremony which included legends from previous World Cup winning teams, and model Claudia Sniffer, the opening game of the 2006 tournament was not the usual dull first game fare.

The normally dull, but efficient, German team were neither. Defensively they were left exposed by two cunning through balls, which ex-Derby forward Paulo Wanchope finished with aplomb, and the Germans looked nervy in defence throughout. Offensively, Germany played with flair, and two stunning strikes, from Philipp Lahm and Torsten Frings, were sandwiched in between two Gerd Muller-type finishes from Miroslav Klose.

In attack, Germany look as if they will pose a greater threat in this tournament than expected, especially with the return of Michael Ballack. But, defensively, they look as if they will leak goals, so it'll be a surprise if they get past the quarter-finals. Costa Rica could well take second spot in Group A, as it's not a group rich in quality.

- Paul Rance/booksmusicfilmstv.com.