Team Profile Costa Rica (Group D) Team Overview: The Ticos a native name for Costa Ricans, Coached by Jorge Luis Pinto, may not be a recognised name in Europe but outside European Club football he has won titles in Columbia, Peru, Costa Rica & Venezuela a man of experience, that was dealt a tough draw to say the least. In the last group stage of qualifying they were only beaten 2 times in 10 games and finished 4 points behind Jurgen Klinsmans USA side. No one expects Costa Rica to advance from the group, but they should not be underestimated they could pull of a shock results if the other teams go into the game with Costa Rica thinking 3 points are a given, because they are no push overs. Team Trivia: Have featured at 3 of the last 4 world cup finals. Their best ever finish in a world cup is the round of 16, that would be a great achievement here. They have only won 2 of their last 6 games and will need to step it up at the finals, it should be noted that 3 defeats were in friendly games. Tactics: The way Costa Rica play may be a surprise to many, they base their play on solid defence and counter attacking, this will suit playing such big opponents. Keylor Navas: The goalkeeper at Levante in La Liga has impressed, he is solid and has attracted attention from other Clubs, he is a leader and a reliable figure at the back for Costa Rica, with such a tough group he will need to perform. Joel Campbell: The Arsenal player that has been on loan at olympiakos will in a number 9 role for his county and is not far off from scoring 1 goal in 3 for his country. He is only 21 years old and is improving season on season, so he will be exciting to watch at the World Cup. Bryan Ruiz: some of his club performances were criticised but he played rather well on loan at PSV and it is clear to see he has talent and flair, with the added confidence of playing with his peers and countrymen he could shine playing behind the striker as a second striker or centre forward if you prefer. Can Ruiz light up the World cup? With his free kick ability and swerving shots he might just upset one of the big contenders in Group D. Celso Borges: Plays for AIK in Sweeden where he has scored 20 in 54 games from midfield and he is actually the top scorer in the costa rica squad, he is a central midfielder and is a player with many qualities, if he impresses maybe greener pastures are on the horizon, he is vital to the sides success. Group D opponents: Italy, England & Uruguay
Posted on: Tue, 03 Jun 2014 09:15:06 +0000
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