GROUP A
December 10, 2005Germany
Have appeared in 15 World Cups, failing to qualify in 1930 and 1950.
Best performances: Winners in 1954, 1974 and 1990
Worst performances: Eliminated in 4-2 first round defeat to Switzerland in 1938
FIFA Ranking: 16
Costa Rica
Have appeared in two World Cups; 1990 and 2002.
Best performances: Reached the second round in 1990
Worst performances: Finished third in group in 2002
FIFA Ranking: 21
Poland
Have appeared in six World Cups, the last being 2002.
Best performances: Third place in 1974 and 1982.
Worst performances: First round exit in 1938 courtesy of 6-5 defeat by Brazil.
FIFA Ranking: 23
Ecuador
Only appearance in World Cup came in 2002.
Knocked out at group stage after beating Croatia, losing to Italy and drawing with Mexico.
FIFA Ranking: 37