First place in Group D at the World Cup in Brazil will be up for grabs on Friday as Italy takes on Costa Rica, who probably pulled off the upset of the tournament so far when they throttled Uruguay. However, Costa Rica will have a much tougher time against an Italian side that might not be at full strength due to injuries, but they’re much smarter and disciplined than Uruguay.
World Cup Odds: Italy -215, Costa Rica +655, Draw +335
Why Italy Can Win
Italy dealt with England’s challenge very well in a 2-1 win in their opener, even when England pushed forward for a tying goal and even if they would have allowed one, would you have put it past Italy to win anyway? Andrea Pirlo was harassed more after destroying England at Euro 2012, but his dummy for Claudio Marchisio’s goal was simply brilliant, and Mario Balotelli scored an intelligent match-winner, losing his marker at the far post for a header. In the World Cup, you need players that can change a game on a whim, and Italy has those in Pirlo and Balotelli.
However, they would love to have captain Gianluigi Buffon back in goal from an ankle injury, and Daniele De Rossi might be forced to sit due to an ailing neck, so keep an eye on their status ahead of this match.
Why Costa Rica Can Win
Costa Rica played like a team with nothing to lose in their 3-1 win over Uruguay, and while it hurt them at times, they took their chances when they were presented. Joel Campbell had a goal and an assist in a fantastic performance for his country, and the 21-year-old will definitely be on Italy’s radar. Throwing caution to the wind might be the only chance for Costa Rica, who isn’t going to match Italy talent for talent, so they just might have to go straight at them and see if they can force some mistakes.
But there is always the chance that Costa Rica will get overzealous and do something to make their life more difficult, for example, a red card. Costa Rica does have to play with no fear, but they have to be smart about it and at the back, Balotelli can put a couple of goals away if he is given the chance.
Outlook
This will be just the second all-time meeting between Italy and Costa Rica as the Italians won a friendly match by a score of 2-0, but that was back in 1985. There is much more on the line on Friday as the Italians look to seize control of Group D and take a step towards the top spot, which means they would play the second-place team in Group C. Costa Rica might have played over their limits against Uruguay and it would be a massive performance if they could do it again, but the fact is, Italy is simply a better team and they will prove it.
Pick: Italy
