World Cup Day 1: Ticos lose inaugural match; Ecuador shuts out Poland

In the first match this year’s soccer World Cup, Costa Rica lost 4-2 against hosts Germany with Paulo Wanchope (image, left) scoring twice in a losing effort. Germany played well but not in convincing fashion over the Central Americans. Even in defeat, the “ticos” were pleased with the team’s performance as coach Alexandre Guimaraes noted that “we didn’t feel we made many mistakes today…we have great potential to do well in the other two games.”

In a slight upset, Ecuador shut out Poland 2-0 with a goal and an assist by Agustin Delgado, (image, right) who started the match despite a knee injury. “El Tin” Delgado set up Carlos Tenorio’s goal in the 24^th minute and scored in the 80^th minute to seal a crucial victory for Ecuador in front of a mostly pro-Polish crowd. With the win, Ecuador is in good position to qualify for the second round, especially if they win there next game Thursday against Costa Rica.

Costa Rica, ecuador, soccer, world cup