Italy - Costa Rica

This match would decide which team would go be the first to progress from Group D. England looked on, hoping Italy would win so they still had a slim chance to qualify. Balotelli demanded two kisses from the Queen if he scored and Gary Lineker donned his Italy t shirt on BBC to show his support. Unbiased punditry at its finest.


Costa Rica started better. They played with a composure and disruption that prevented Italy from finding rhythm and discouraged Engand fans hopes of an Italian win. The Italians were flustered and couldn't cope with the Costa Rican set up. 5 strong defenders and 4 energetic midfielders controlled the game for the Central Americans.


But Balotelli broke in behind, on more than one occasion. The first time he was able to nick it over the keeper but the ball bounced to safety. The second time his volley from outside the area was well saved by the Costa Rican goalkeeper.

Balotelli grimaces after his chip

Los Ticos had chances of their own, and worried Italian captain Buffon. It was they who opened the scoring just before half time. Firstly Joel Campbell was barged off the ball in the penalty area. A blatant penalty but the referee never awarded it. Much to the outrage of commentator Robbie Savage. Justice was done though when Diaz fizzed in a tantalising cross from the left and found Fulham's Bryan Ruiz. His header crashed off the bar and into the net before bouncing out. It was over the line, and the referee awarded the goal. He then checked the goal line technology just to be sure. Tears for heroes back in the England hotel as their doom drew closer with no plans for final day.


The Costa Ricans continued to be the better team. Italy just couldn't get started. They were slow and uncreative, repeatedly playing the 'round the corner' ball to try release the uninterested Balotelli. Although they had improved on their first half performance. Balotelli was non-existent. Costa Rica began to look comfortable, Italy rarely threatened. England prayed for something from the Europeans as they stayed in bed, drifting away. It finished 1 - 0 and the underdogs of the group that no one considered qualified for the last 16. They began the World Cup 28th in the word rankings and now have easily walked into the knock out stages at either Italy or Uruguay's expense. England are out, with a game to play.

 Italy 0 - 1 Costa Rica 

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