Germany [Images] captain Michael Ballack [Images] was left out of the World Cup opener against Costa Rica in Group A on Friday, despite having declared himself fit on the eve of the match.
Coach Juergen Klinsmann resisted the temptation to bring his most influential player back early from his calf injury, instead opting for Tim Borowski as a straight swap for Ballack in the centre of midfield.
Klinsmann named the experienced right-sided midfielder Bernd Schneider as the stand-in captain.
Costa Rica had slight doubts over goalkeeper Jose Francisco Porras, midfielder Mauricio Solis and defender Gilberto Martinez but all three were cleared to play.
Paulo Wanchope, now recovered from his knee injuries, took his place up front alongside Ronald Gomez.
Football Fiesta: Complete coverage
© Copyright 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
|
Discuss this Article | 
Email this Article | 
Print this Article
Advertisement