Group A continued...

Poland

After a first round exit in 2002, Poland are eager to make an impression in the group stages this time around. They finished second in their qualifying group to England, though they led the group for most of the campaign. Here's the squad.

Skinheads United

World Cup Pedigree: Decent. Have twice finished third(74 & 82), but haven't qualified regularly of late.

National Significance: Inventors of pierogis and underwater hairdryers

Best Player: Tonasz Francowski, nicknamed "The Goals Hunter" for his efforts in qualifying. His reward: He didn't make the final squad. Neither did Liverpool's keeper Jerzy Dudek, or Olisadebe, the naturalized Nigerian who was the top scorer in 2002 European qualifying. Poland's coach needs to lay off the crack, apparently.

Strengths: They score lots. Only three European teams scored more in qualifying. Plus, Poles are just plain strong. Trust me. I had a gym membership in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Weaknesses: Lack of a true star and a tendency to concede easy goals.

Entertainment Value: 8. Expect high scoring encounters with this bunch.

Fun Facts: Poland's fans have replaced the English as most feared hooligans in football. In 2002, Japanese authorities braced for the English hordes. This time the Germans are getting ready for the Poles. Good thing the Germans know a thing or two about hordes.

Expectations: Most commentators(European ones anyway) expect them to advance from the group stages.

The Prognosis: Germany are a lock to qualify from this group, which leaves Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Poland to scramble for one place. They'll like their chances against the Latin American sides, but it won't be easy. In 2002 they were a Jekyl & Hyde outfit, getting thrased by Portugal and returning that favor to the USA. Which Poland will show up this time? I predict a first round exit and some riots in the terraces.

Ecuador

Like Poland, Ecuador were a first round casualty in Korea-Japan. Having had their first taste of the big stage in 2002, they'll be eager to impress.

World Cup Pedigree: Small. 2002 was their first ever tournament.

Historical Significance: The Incan Empire

Best Player: Centre-half Giovanni Espinoza holds down the fort, while midfielder Edison Mendez gets things going forward and has a mean shot to go with his overall mean demeanor. The guy is just plain mean. His nickname is "Mendez the Mean."

Strengths: Take a more tactical approach than most South American sides. Bright yellow jerseys may disorient opponents.

Weaknesses: Have little experience against European competition.

Fun Facts: All of their qualifying wins came at high altitude. Seven wins at home in Quito and one away to Bolivia. Could be the Denver Broncos of soccer.

Entertainment Value: 6. Have the skills to entertain, but will probably resort to cynical tactics to counter European aggression, much like the Incas did.

Expectations: Would be happy with a second round berth.

The Prognosis: Ecuador are riding a wave of confidence, having beaten mighty Brazil and Argentina during qualification. Their World Cup inexperience showed during a 2-0 defeat to Italy in 2002. Have about as good a shot as Poland or Costa Rica to advance from the group stages.