Team Preview – Costa Rica
Costa Rica, currently ranked 34 in the world, the “Ticos” are the most successful Central American team, and the third in CONCACAF behind Mexico and the United States. Good form in qualifying saw Costa Rica finish second in their group on 18 points, behind the US, and ahead of Mexico and Honduras.
Being draw in Group D, unfortunately sees them up against some of the heavyweights of world football.
Manager
Jorge Luis Pinto, the 61yr old Columbian has been successful at 1st division club level in Peru (3) , Costa Rica (2), Venezuela (2), and Columbia (1), Pinto, has been unable to convert this to national team level, with unsuccessful stints with Costa Rica in 2004/05 and Columbia in 2007/08.
Will 2014 be Pinto year? Only time will tell.
Star Player
Bryan Ruiz: the right sided mid fielder / striker, and Costa Rican captain, plays for Fulham, but is currently on loan to PSV. Ruiz 12 international goals from 63 game makes him one of the most experienced players Costa Rica has, the Tico’s will need him at him best, if they are to cause any upsets.
Who to look out for:
Kaylor Navas: the Levante keeper is 27yr old, has played 53 games for his country, and with current form and a bit of luck, could be the bloke to give Tico’s a shot at the 16.
Joel Campbell: the 21 year old Arsenal player, has been loaned to FC Lorient, Real Bêtise, and Olypmpiacos, due to work permit issues. A forward who can play either wing as well, and with 9 goals from 33 games for Costa Rica, makes him a next-gen player to watch this tournament.
Draw
Group D
Match 7 – Uruguay v Costa Rica 15/6/14 5:00am (AET)
Match 24 – Italy v Costa Rica 21/6/14 2:00am
Match 40 – Costa Rica v England 25/6/14 2:00am
Prediction
Up against Uruguay, England and Italy, I doubt If Costa Rica will advance to the round of 16.
Don’t be surprised if they give the “Three Lions” a scare though.
FTSAUS Fact
Wellington Phoenix duo Carlos Hernandez (now an ex player) and Kenny Cunningham, both play midfield for the Ticos
Really hope they get some game time in Brazil
Previous World Cup Appearances:
2014 is Costa Rica’s 4th Wold Cup appearance, also qualifying in 1990, 2002, 2006
Their best result was a round 16 finish in Italy.
Extra Time:
Really looking forward to watching Luis Suarez in action in Group D, tipping him for the golden boot along with Spaniard Fernando Torres.
Is “Tico’s” a Costa Rican variation of the Mexican Soft Shell Taco ?
I’m not sure, if so, I’m a huge fan.
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