In a group as competitive as D in the Copa América, and after the tie between Ticos and Brazilians, all eyes are on this match on Friday, June 28. If it wins, Colombia would qualify for the quarterfinals and consolidate its growing favoritism, to reach the match with Brazil more calmly, which in theory is the most difficult rival in the group. Colombia has found in players like Richard Rios a revelation for its ideas and solidity of play and in recent games different players have scored: it does not depend on a single scorer.
But Costa Rica, #52 in the FIFA rankings, could surprise once again and knock down all the myths and predictions in this tournament. Even though history is in Colombia’s favor (11 matches, 9 wins for Colombia and two for Costa Rica), Alfaro is a Colombian executioner. In the last qualifying round, Alfaro’s Ecuador beat Colombia 6-1. Alfaro, who has been a sports commentator for television channels in Colombia, knows the Colombian players and is a coach with experience in major tournaments. One of the leaders of the Ticos is Juan Pablo Vargas, a player for Millonarios, who also knows the Colombians well.
