COSTA RICA SPORTS NEWS – Do they have a shot? Not really. But it doesn’t mean Costa Rica won’t leave its mark on the 2014 edition of the FIFA World Cup that kicks off in Brazil next week.
Costa Rica, though based on past performances in World Cup play, is unlikely to make it past the first round of play. Placed in Group D, the Ticos that barely maded it to the World Cup faces top ranked teams: Italy, England and Uruguay.
Overmatched, however, Costa Rica can still make it rough the others.
Costa Rica qualified for Brazil by finishing second in CONCACAF’s hexagonal, right behind the US. The Ticos only lost two of their 10 qualifying games, and finished with the fewest goals allowed, averaging a stingy 0.7 goals per game. The trail included winning all 5 of their home qualifying games, including against Mexico and the US. They were led in qualifying by 8 goals from striker Alvaro Saborio, who plays for Real Salt Lake in MLS.
Costa Rica faces Uruguay, on June 12 and then Italy on June 20. The break for the Ticos may be in the third game, on June 24 against England. See games schedule and results here.
And, in Tico daying, “Si Dios Quiere” (if God willing), they just may make it to the second round, repeating the triump of 1990. And then back home.
