World Cup CHECK | Costa Rica – Navas should carry “Ticos” far

Once again led by Real Madrid's Champions League hero Keylor Navas, the small Central American country is hoping for a Dacapo in Russia this year. But even surviving the group stage would be a huge surprise given the opponents Brazil, Serbia and Switzerland.

When the “Ticos”, as the country’s residents are called in Latin America, take part in the World Cup for the fifth time, a lot will once again depend on Real goalkeeper Navas. The 31-year-old, who recently drove Bayern Munich's players to despair in the Champions League semi-finals, needs similarly good days as before against Serbia (June 17th), Brazil (June 22nd) and Switzerland (June 27th). four years ago when his star really rose in Brazil.

With a series of brilliant saves, Navas created the basis for his team's promotion to the quarter-finals, where they only ended unfortunately in a penalty shootout against the Netherlands. In the group, the Central Americans prevailed against Uruguay, Italy and England. In the election for goalkeeper of the tournament, Navas only had to admit defeat to Germany's world champion goalie Manuel Neuer. After the World Cup, the Spanish record champions from Madrid signed the Costa Rican from league rivals Levante.

Attacker Bryan Ruiz, who now plays for Sporting in Portugal, will lead the team onto the pitch as captain in Russia. He receives support on the front line from Joel Campbell, who was recently loaned out to Betis Sevilla from Arsenal, and Marco Urena from new MLS club Los Angeles FC. Most of the Legionnaires in coach Oscar Ramirez's squad are involved in the North American Major League Soccer, but the domestic championship is also well represented.

Ramirez has been head coach since August 2015. The now 53-year-old was promoted to the front row less than two weeks after being appointed assistant coach, as his predecessor Paulo Wanchope resigned after a fight with a steward. In the CONCACAF qualification, the “Ticos” won both matches against the USA (4-0 at home, 2-0 away) and achieved a 1-1 home draw against Mexico. In the final tally, Costa Rica took second place behind the Mexicans.

Things haven't gone so well for Ramirez's team in recent friendlies. Especially far from home on the other side of the Atlantic, the majority suffered defeats. They suffered a 2017-0 defeat against Spain in autumn 5, and lost 0-1 in matches against Tunisia and Hungary. Costa Rica only prevailed against Scotland and won 1-0 in Glasgow. Before the start of the World Cup there will be tests against Northern Ireland, England and Belgium.

Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

World Cup CHECK | Costa Rica – Navas should carry “Ticos” far

Four years ago, Costa Rica sensationally reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Brazil.

Suggestions

Comments (0)