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Germany to kick off 2006 World Cup final
Host Germany will kick off the 2006 World Cup, even though its coach didn't want the honor.
FIFA said Wednesday that Germany will play the opening match June 9, 2006, in Munich. Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann wanted another team, preferably defending champion Brazil, provided it qualifies, to play in the opener.
Since 1974, the defending champion has played the opening match of the new tournament. But FIFA has changed its rules, meaning even defending champions now must qualify.
"We are very happy that we'll be playing the opening match at the new soccer temple in Munich," Klinsmann said in a statement distributed by German organizers. "We are glad that FIFA made an early decision and we can now make our plans accordingly."
Franz Beckenbauer, the former star who is now the president of the organizing committee, echoed Klinsmann's initial fears, saying favorites had often faltered in opening matches. But he also welcomed the decision.
"Our team now has the chance to open the championship with a bang," he said.
Germany's other group matches will be June 14 in Dortmund and June 20 in Berlin.
The final is July 9 in Berlin.
FIFA, soccer's world governing body, also said that the final draw for the 32-nation tournament will be held in Leipzig on Dec. 9, 2005.
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