Record of maximum goals as Germany win

Munich: Miroslav Klose struck twice to lead Germany to a 4-2 win over Costa Rica on Friday, getting the World Cup off to a record-breaking start.

The opening goal was a brilliant piece of work from Lahm. The 22-year-old hared forward to meet a loose ball near the right touchline and cut back inside.

The goal total broke the record for the most in the opening match of a finals tournament, surpassing the five scored in France's 4-1 triumph over Mexico in the inaugural competition in 1930.

Italy had crushed US 7-1 on the first day of the 1934 World Cup but there was no opening game in that competition, with eight matches being played simultaneously.

"At such a mega event like the World Cup, we've got to put this behind us quickly," Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann told ZDF television.

"The players can have a little glass of beer tonight if they want but our focus has to turn right away to the next match (against Poland on Wednesday). We're happy with this start."