Perhaps the two most compelling groups came to their surprising conclusions on THU 22 JUN 2006.
» Czech Rep 00-02 Italy: With places at the top of Group E up for grabs, only the Azzurri were able to capitalise. Marco MATERAZZI and Pippo INZAGHI scored to earn a place in the round of sixteen.
» Ghana 02-01 United States: With the Italians up in Hamburg, these teams knew that their unlikely second round dreams would come true with a win. And with Haminu DRAMAN's opener, along with Stephen APPIAH's penalty, the Black Stars ensured that their first Men's World Cup would last at least one more match.
» Croatia 02-02 Australia: Australia fought back twice to earn a draw and a place in the next round in this match that saw three red cards.
» Japan 01-04 Brazil: RONALDO's two goals give him 14 in his World Cup career, tying him with Gerd MÜLLER for the all time lead. Brazil totalled a perfect nine points in Group F, doing so for the second straight tournament.
» Second round matchups: Italy–Australia, Brazil–Ghana