Goals: Costa Rica—Ruiz 44'
Recap: A tactical masterclass saw Costa Rica defeat Italy 1-0, securing advancement to the Round of 16 for the second time in the nation's history.
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Dominating early and dictating the pace of the match, Costa Rica was finally rewarded in the 44th minute. A pristine cross from Junior Diaz was met by the head of Bryan Ruiz. The 28-year-old left little doubts with his finish, lifting the nation to a 1-0 lead. It was all frustration from there. Italy had little, if anything to offer to Los Ticos.
Costa Rica remains atop Group D and has not conceded a goal from the run of play in 180 World Cup minutes.
Key Moment: Costa Rica had the opportunity to take a 1-0 lead sooner than Ruiz's header. Joel Campbell's darting run into the box was halted by Mario Chiellini. It was, as the British say, "a stonewall penalty." It wasn't rewarded. Fortunately for referee Enrique Osses, there was no need for controversy. Costa Rica got the victory it deserved.
Man of the Match: Junior Diaz didn't just proved the assist, he single-handedly dominated the left side of the pitch. The 30-year-old frustrated Italian runs down the flank, swarming the ball and winning back possession for his team. He would finish the match with four tackles, but his performance cannot be summed up by a single number.
Lesson Learned: Costa Rica has a sound defense. Unlike others who resort to negative tactics, Los Ticos were able to defend with a back line of five while simultaneously playing proactive football. Costa Rica has every bit quality to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in its history.
Up Next: Costa Rica travels to Belo Horizonte to face England on June 24, while Italy battles Uruguay for second place in Natal.
Note: Credit all statistics to officially licensed data from Opta Sports (via WhoScored).
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