Munich, Germany (My Sportsbook) - After years of preparation, the 2006 World Cup officially kicks off Friday as host country Germany tries to outwit Group A opponent Costa Rica in the tournament's first match in Munich.

Friday's match is the first of two in the 2006 tournament's first day of action.

The host country will be under the eyes of thousands of German fans and the World as the team tries to capture its first World Cup trophy since 1990. The first step towards soccer greatness lies at the feat of a talented Costa Rica squad. The team heads into its third World Cup tournament, and the second one under manager Alexandre Guimaraes' direction.

With a talented roster filled with experience, Costa Rica has a legitimate shot at making it past the group stages, but must first try to get past a difficult German squad.

German manager Jurgen Klinsmann offers a World Cup lineup that features the likes of forward Miroslav Klose, midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and goalkeeper Jens Lehmann.

On top of the superb lineup, Germany brings a long World Cup history to the field. With the exception of the 1930 and 1950 finals, the Germans have competed in every World Cup tournament.

In addition to the strong defensive line and experienced midfield, Germany will rely on the talents of Klose, who is known for his aggressive play. The forward, who spends the season with club team Werder Bremen, is known as one of the Bundesliga's best players.

Klose will match-up well with his counterpart, Paulo Wanchope on Costa Rica's side. Wanchope is the country's all-time leading scorer, and offers this year's team with plenty of experience that could go a long way in the tournament.

Costa Rica will immediately be put to the test, as the team has a lengthy list of growing injury concerns to deal with headed into Friday's match. Defenders Gilberto Martinez and Michael Rodriguez are both recovering from knee injuries and were forced out of training earlier in the week.

Goalkeeper Alvaro Mesen has also struggled in training with a calf injury. The team's star striker, Wanchope, has also raised concerns with a long- term knee problem that the player has been battling throughout his career. The striker is expected to retire at the end of the tournament.

Injuries have also taken their affect on the German squad as well, especially for midfielder Michael Ballack, who has been ruled out of Friday's opener. The midfielder had battled through an ankle injury nearly two weeks ago, but was forced out of training due to a calf strain on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Friday marks the first international meeting ever between Germany and Costa Rica. The two clubs open the tournament at the FIFA World Cup Stadium Munich, a world famous venue known for its unique architecture.

Following Friday's match, Germany moves on to face Poland in Dortmund and finishes the group stages against Ecuador. Costa Rica travels to Hamburg to face Ecuador in its second match and finishes the group stages against Poland in Hanover.