A group-stage exit in 2002 had been a sobering lesson. Costa Rica returned in 2006 with renewed purpose. Under Alexandre Guimarães, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 2 | 6 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 6 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 9 | -6 | 0 |
It was a tournament to forget for Costa Rica, who left without a single victory to their name.
Costa Rica found the group stage unforgiving, unable to pick up a single victory against their opponents. Their campaign featured a 2-4 defeat against Germany, a heavy 0-3 defeat to Ecuador, and a narrow 1-2 loss to Poland. The World Cup dream ended earlier than hoped, with Costa Rica bowing out in the first round.
3lost
3scored9conceded
Lost all 3 matches conceded 9 goals in 3 matches.
Paulo Wanchope led Costa Rica's attack with 2 goals at the 2006 World Cup.
8yellow
2.7per match
Marín booked twice 5 cards in a single match vs Poland.
The tactical mind behind Costa Rica's 2006 campaign. At the helm since the 2002 World Cup winless under Guimarães.
Costa Rica's playing identity was marked by a defensive approach, with Paulo Wanchope and Rónald Gómez providing scoring opportunities. The team struggled to find consistency throughout the group stage.
