The giant slayers
Tiny Costa Rica have been a revelation at the World Cup, leading the Latin American charge
OTHERS :
Unbeaten Costa Rica proudly marched into the second round of the World Cup, topping Group D, which contained three former winners, after a 0-0 draw with an already-eliminated England.
The Ticos, assured of progress before kick-off after beating Italy and Uruguay in a spectacular start to their tournament, comfortably held their own against England, who endured their worst World Cup showing in 56 years.
For Costa Rica, underdogs who few expected to survive the group stage, this World Cup is already historic.
“We’ve given Costa Rica status in the football world. No one can say it was chance, luck or just for a few moments," coach Jorge Luis Pinto said after Tuesday’s 0-0 draw with England that followed remarkable wins over Uruguay and Italy.
Costa Rica, who last reached the second round in 1990, will now face Colombia in a Central American Round of 16 clash.
Pinto paid tribute to England, who changed nine starters from their last game to give the next generation a chance to garner experience, but then brought on the experienced Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, to no avail at the end.
“They have a good attack and strong defence. It’s a team that didn’t have any luck," he said.
“It wasn’t easy for me with the changes they made—quality players like Gerrard, (Raheem) Sterling and Rooney. I told you they weren’t going to go home without a point," said Pinto.
Pinto was thrilled too with the thousands of Costa Ricans who celebrated the draw and chanted “Ole, ole" throughout the match at Belo Horizonte’s Mineirao stadium.
“I’m so happy for Costa Rica. I know the love they have for football," said the Colombia-born coach. “May they keep enjoying it! I’ve loved the three games. We’ve played sure, dynamic football. We’re unbeaten, it’s historic. Now for some rest."
Uruguay snatched the second ticket for the knockout stage after finishing on six points with a 1-0 win over Italy, who have three points.
England bowed out at the group stage for the first time since the 1958 World Cup, finishing at the bottom with just one point.
There were also minor scuffles in the stands towards the end as frustration among English fans grew, but they were quickly dealt with by stadium security.
Some 200 England fans were forced to remain in an empty stadium long after the final whistle, surrounded by dozens of riot police and stewarts, before being calmly escorted out. Reuters
For more stories from Brazil, go to www.livemint.com/worldcup2014
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