World Cup wonder goals: Lahm lights up curtain-raiser

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We’re counting down to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ by showcasing a golazo from the global finals each day.

Philipp Lahm

Germany v Costa Rica
Germany 2006 | Group Stage
FIFA World Cup stadium, Munich

The clock had just ticked past the five-minute mark in the World Cup 2006 opening game when Philipp Lahm took up possession wide on the left wing.

With the Costa Rica defenders well set numerically and positionally, they could be forgiven for believing there was no imminent goalscoring threat.

Lahm had other ideas. A player of rare skill, intelligence and ball-striking ability, the Germany star cut inside before leaving Costa Rica defender Danny Fonseca on his backside with one swift movement. Lahm then curled in a sumptuous effort from the edge of the box, sending the home fans wild and setting the tone for a magical World Cup.

Watch Germany v Costa Rica full match highlights
Philipp Lahm: Classic players
The Germany 2006 quiz