Both Italy and Costa Rica are sitting comfortably on top of Group D as both Uruguay and England now need help if they intend on moving past the knockout stages. Italy remains the favorite of the grouping along with being a favorite in the entire tournament and look to keep pace as they face off against Costa Rica on Friday with confidence flying high from both rosters.
Italy was always a favorite to beat England so their opening-match win was no surprise. However, Costa Rica entered the World Cup as big underdogs and managed to upset Uruguay to earn their first tournament win in 12 years. The team is underdogs once again facing off against Italy, but their strengths could cause the European favorites some headaches. Costa Rica is built with speed at the top and ability to absorb pressure in the back that might hurt Italy who had some questionable defensive issues against England.
Italy needs to make adjustments if they are going to avoid an upset from Costa Rica. They will likely start Gabriel Paletta over Ignazio Abate while allowing Giorgio Chiellini to play in the middle. Gianluigi Buffon returns after missing the opening game against England. The captain is the most expensive goalie in the tournament and after being the hero in 2006's win, Italy will be happy to have him back on the pitch. He missed the last World Cup finals in South Africa and Italy paid the price. Entering as a favorite once again, having Buffon in the net will be a welcomed presence.
Costa Rica is not planning any changes to their original game plan. It upset a strong team once, it can certainly do it again. Junior Diaz, Cristian Gamboa will return to anchor the defense while Bryan Ruiz will be expected to stop major scoring attacks. Costa Rica will have taken notice to how England challenge Italy with their pace of play. The team will likely up their speed in order to take advantage of their youth and tire Italy early.
The rest of Group D will be watching this match heavily. A draw between the two teams means England is out of contention altogether. However, neither team is interested in just acquiring one point. Getting a win means they control the standings and will likely advance no matter what. Costa Rica is confident they can continue to upset top teams as Italy must handle the pressure of being a favorite.
