It doesn’t get any better than the final group stage match for Brazil and Costa Rica. The two meet as the top two offenses of Group E in a matchup that should feature plenty of fireworks. What makes this match even more interesting is that Costa Rica still has plenty to play for in the hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Think Costa Rica can pull off a big upset against powerhouse Brazil? Read on for a complete preview of this upcoming group stage match.
Brazil is through to the knockout stage of the World Cup after a 1-0 victory over tough Group E opponent, Spain. A Selecao managed to eke out the tight win after Andressa Alves netted the game-winner just before the break.
[sc:Soccer240banner ]Alves joins Fabiana and Marta as the three goal-scorers for Brazil in the tournament. Of the three, Marta proves to be the most devastating, holding the record for the most goals (15) in Women’s World Cup history. Cristiane is another devastating forward for A Selecao with 74 international goals on 106 caps. At 30 years of age, she’s one of the more experienced players on the team.
Brazil is making a strong bid to win its first ever Women’s World Cup. The Brazilians are the only team left in the tournament yet to concede a goal. But their next opponent, Costa Rica, may be able to match them goal-for-goal. Costa Rica is tied with Brazil with the most goals (three) in Group E.
Brazil is 4-2-2 in eight matches in 2015.
Betting on Costa Rica
When push comes to shove, Costa Rica won’t be backing down. Las Ticas are just one of two teams to score three goals in Group E. But they have yet to record a win after drawing their first two matches in the group stage.
Wendy Acosta scored the equalizer in a 1-1 draw against fellow World Cup debutant Spain. Meanwhile, Melissa Herrera opened the scoring in Costa Rica’s second match against South Korea before Karla Villalobos scored the equalizer in a 2-2 draw.
It’ll be crucial for Costa Rica to upset the Group E favorite, Brazil, to seal its place in the knockout stage. Las Ticas are currently in second place in the group with two points, while Spain and South Korea are tied for third with a point each. A win for either side coupled with a draw or loss from Costa Rica would send Las Ticas home. Costa Rica could also advance with a draw if Spain and South Korea were to draw their final group stage match against one another.
But going head-to-head against Brazil may be difficult. Costa Rica has been outshot 35-14 in its first two matches, and also surrendered possession of the ball over 50 percent of the time against Spain and South Korea. Las Ticas have also allowed three goals in the tournament thus far — the second most in Group E. Expect them to come under fire against Brazil’s blistering offense.
Writer’s Prediction
Brazil wins comfortably, 2-0. Create a betting account now and make some cash as the Women’s World Cup heats up.
