34
FIFA Ranking
1
Finals
2018
Last World Cup
2014 (8th)
Best Performance
Costa Rica qualified for their third straight World Cup, and their 5th in 6 editions, but they had to go about it the long way. Despite defeating USA 2-0 on the final qualifying day, they finished in 4th spot, below the United States on goal difference, and required a one off play match to make it to Qatar. A third minute goal from Joel Campbell, formerly of Arsenal, Villarreal, Real Betis and Sporting Lisbon was enough to secure a 1-0 win over New Zealand to secure their place. Costa Rica famously reached the Quarter Finals in Brazil 2014, finishing top of the Group of Death consisting of Uruguay, England and Italy before defeating Greece in the Round of 16. Only a penalty shootout defeat to Netherlands stopped them in their tracks.
Player to Watch
35 year old goalkeeper Keylor Navas is undoubtedly the most decorated player for his nation at domestic level, having featured in the first time squad for Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain for many years. Everpresent in qualifying, the three time UEFA Champions League winner is a major reason for Costa Rica’s impressive defensive record, and he will be a huge factor in determining whether or not they will progress this time around.
Squad List