BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Costa Ricans have pulled off their second successive shock victory in the 2014 FIFA World Cup; this time by beating 2006 champions Italy on Friday (Jun 21).
In their first game of the World Cup, the Costa Ricans came from behind to defeat Uruguay 3-1, thanks to a brilliant second half display by Joel Campbell.
Skysports reported that Costa Rica have qualified for the Knockout Round for the first time since 1990 with one game left in group D.
Costa Rica’s victory also signifies the elimination of England from the World Cup.
The media organisation also reported that the game’s drama came just before halftime when Joel Campbell was shoved to the ground in the box by Giorgio Chiellini in what was seemingly a clear penalty but was denied by the referee.
However, Costa Rico’s 1-nil victory was secured when a cross from Junior Diaz on the left found Bryan Ruiz, who sent a firm header off the crossbar. The ball landed a foot over the line but the goal-line technology confirmed it and eliminated all doubts.
In Friday’s second game, France continued their good form as they hammered their Swiss counterparts 5-2 in the top of the table clash in Group E.
According to Skysports, two goals in two minutes from Olivier Giroud and Blaise Matuidi in the 17th and 18th minutes got French off to a flying start.
Karim Benzema had an opportunity to make it three before half time but his penalty kick was saved by keeper Diego Benaglio.
Mathieu Valbuena Valbuena then made it 3-0 and Benzema however made up for his discrepancy form the first half to make it 4-0 before Moussa Sissoko scored the fifth goal.
Switzerland then got two late goals from Granit Xhaka and BlerimDžemaili to spoil what was a brilliant French display.
In the day’s final game, two goals from Enner Valencia led Ecuador’s come from behind victory over Honduras.
