As the World Cup edges closer, we continue our run down of all 32 competing nations in Russia.
Having delved into Brazil, Serbia and Switzerland already this week, it’s time to conclude Group E with a preview of Costa Rica.
Oscar Ramirez’s side qualified for next month’s tournament with ease and are now gearing up for their second successive World Cup campaign.
Four years ago, Costa Rica secured their best ever World Cup finish, making it all the way to the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Holland on penalties.
Unfortunately, since booking their place in Russia, Costa Rica’s preparation has not gone to plan. Los Ticos have only won one of their last seven matches, losing four of their last five.
Keylor Navas is the notable name in the Costa Rica squad and they will need the Real Madrid goalkeeper to be at his best if they are to follow up their 2014 success here.
The 31-year-old, fresh from Madrid’s third straight Champions League triumph, will be a busy man in Group E, particularly against pre-tournament favourites Brazil.
Costa Rica only conceded three goals in six games in qualifying but they have fallen to pieces since then, even shipping five against Spain back in November.
While Costa Rica lack form, they certainly make up for that with experience. In fact, only two outfielders selected in their 23-man squad have less than 20 caps and are younger than 25.
Bryan Ruiz will captain Costa Rica at the World Cup and the former Fulham creator is the most experienced member of the squad (109 caps).
The 32-year-old endured a bit-part role for Sporting this season, only starting 11 league games. However, Ruiz will be an important member of Costa Rica’s starting XI this summer.
A player to keep a close eye on this summer for Costa Rica will be Marcos Urena, who has made an interesting start to the season for MLS newcomers Los Angeles FC.
Urena has started seven of Los Angeles’ 12 league matches up front this season, but is yet to score. Despite that, he has provided four assists and creates 3.1 goalscoring opportunities per game.
In fact, only two players register more key passes per game than Urena in MLS this season. His goalscoring record is notably better for Costa Rica, netting 15 goals for his country.
Costa Rica face a tough task progressing to the knockout phase of the 2018 World Cup. They will likely be in competition for second spot along with Switzerland and a talented Serbia outfit.
However, cast your minds back four years and remember Costa Rica finished top of a group containing Italy, England and Uruguay...
