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England is already out of the tournament and has only pride to play for, while Costa Rica will try to pull off another amazing feat after already qualifying to the R16 – they will top the group with a draw.
Costa Rica’s performance in the World Cup has been nothing short of brilliant, two wins against Uruguay and Italy on the back of a vintage display of counterattacking football. The Central Americans have so much speed and flair up front, they are pumping on all cylinders in form and morale and they will look to get at least a point here in order to avoid playing Colombia in the next round. Looking at the way they handled themselves so far, you have to fancy Costa Rica’s chances against a disheartened England side.
Ironically, the three Lions have suffered one of the biggest disappointments in their World Cup history exactly when they actually played good football. I did not see England play so well in the last 15 years, maybe with a few short-lived exceptions here and there, like a stretch under Capello. The British side held possession against both Italy and Uruguay, dominated, had chances, but did not manage to convert. Especially against Uruguay England was utterly dominant and missed some huge opportunities, only to be denied on the break. Their main asset is the fact that, for the first time in years, they have youth, pace and versatility up front. Nevertheless, England is out of the competition after two 1-2 defeats and maybe I am going too far with the praise here. Point is, they are better than the results suggest – defense and arguably the manager have been England’s shortcomings so far, even if Hodgson just got reconfirmed as the NT coach.
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Team news & lineups
Costa Rica has no injuries or suspensions, England still has Oxlade Chamberlain highly doubtful. Roy Hodgson is expected to rotate the squad for this one.
Costa Rica: Pemberton – Acosta, Miller, Diaz, Francis – Barrantes, Calvo, Granados, Tejeda – Urena, Brenes
England: Forster – Jones, Smalling, Cahill, Shaw – Lampard, Wilshere – Lallana, Barkley, Rooney – Sturridge
There was one thing that England did terribly wrong in the first two matches, and that was defending on counterattacks – exactly where Costa Rica’s strength lies. This will be a tough match for England defensively and if they don’t convert their chances up front, they could end up on the wrong end of the scoreboard again. I expect England to hold the ball and create danger up front again, while Costa Rica is sure to create havoc on the break. I can see the Central Americans getting the draw they want, but England can win as well if they won’t miss so many opportunities again. The bet I trust the most is the over. Both sides proved they can bang in the goals, England has problems in defense, the matchup is favorable for a high scoring game. Also, the Three Lions have nothing left to lose, so they should play a little more freely – especially the substitutes that will come in. My tip tis over 2,5 goals to be scored. Prediction: Costa Rica – England 2-3.
Pick: over 2,5 goals
Odds: 1.94 @ Sbobet
Stake: 10
Possible profit: 9.4
Event date: 24 June
