The Brazilians are among the top favorites to win the 2018 World Cup, but they barely looked like a contender in their draw with Switzerland. They have a shot to get it together against a weaker opponent in Costa Rica this Friday. Will they do just that? Or will Costa Rica score an upset?
Philippe Coutinho struck early for Brazil in the opening match in the 2018 World Cup, but just when it looked like Canarinha were about to turn the game into a massacre, Switzerland held their own and even netted an equalizer in the second half to finish the game with a draw – a completely frustrating result for Brazil, who are among the favorites in the tournament. Brazil had 20 shots on goal compared to just six by the Swiss. The disparity suggests that the Brazilians were stymied by Switzerland’s defense, though, Canarinha should change all that against a Costa Rica side that is considered as the group’s whipping boys. Facing a virtual must-win game, Brazil should be able to stamp their class using their immense advantage in talent. Brazil have scored in each of their five outings, while Costa Rica have allowed seven goals in their last three.
Betting on Costa Rica (+1600 Moneyline)
Having a terrific goalie sure helps for Costa Rica. With Keylor Navas in between the sticks for Los Ticos, Costa Rica were able to prevent losing by bigger margin in a 1-0 setback at the hands of Serbia. Navas made at least a pair spectacular stops at the goal, but failed to turn away an Aleksandar Kolarov free kick in the second half that proved to be the different in the tightly contested match. Things could have gone Costa Rica’s way but they failed to convert on some nice chances, including Giancarlo González’s header attempt in the first half. Costa Rica have to increase their activity on the attack as well after just getting three shots on target versus the Serbians. Navas can’t play superhero for an entire game especially against a talent-laden squad like Brazil, so scoring early for Costa Rica is a team priority.
Writer’s Prediction
Brazil gets their first win of the tournament, 3-1.
