With a roster filled with young and old talents, the Czech Republic makes its first official appearance in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

After narrowly missing a spot in the 2002 World Cup, the Czech Republic roared into the qualifying stage for '06 with a fast paced offense that put the team amongst Europe's best.

After losing to Belgium in a match that snatched the team's chances at the '02 tournament, the Czech's moved through the qualifying stages with determination. After securing a second place spot behind the Netherlands, the Czech's were paired with Norway, in need of a win in order to make an appearance in 2006. With both home and away victories, the Czech's secured their spot in Germany.

Led by forward Jan Koller and midfielder Pavel Nedved, the Czech Republic offers the World Cup with some of Europe's finest most dominant players.

Along with Koller, Milan Baros will serve as an important part to the team's front line. Nedved and Tomas Rosicky lead the middle line, with Martin Jiranek and David Rozehnal providing the support in the defense. Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech will serve as the team's goalkeeper. Cech played a crucial role in the team's qualifying matches and also helped bring Chelsea to its second-consecutive league championship in England's Premiership this year.

Drawn into Group E, the Czech Republic opens the tournament on June 12 against the United States in Gelsenkirchen. The U.S. is looking for another strong showing after making it to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1930 in the 2002 tournament.

Following the match with the United States, the Czech's will face Italy and Ghana in the tournament's group matches.

Achievements:

-- World Cup runners-up: 1934, 1962 (as Czechoslovakia)

-- European champions: 1976 (as Czechoslovakia)