While the Azzurri were always favourites to edge a narrow win over England, Los Ticos stunned against Uruguay, coming from behind to record their first World Cup victory
since they edged out China 12 years ago. Costa Rica head into their clash with Italy as underdogs once again, but their confidence will no doubt be as high as ever. Heavily fortified at
the back and lightning quick up top, they certainly have the potential to cause problems for an Azzurri side that looked less than convincing defensively in their opening fixture. Expect Los Ticos to sit deep and soak up pressure, and try to harm Cesare Prandelli's side on the break.
Costa Rica put its other group members at alert after surprisingly beating Uruguay in their World Cup opener and will look to cause another upset against Italy. Both Italy and Costa Rica kicked off their World Cup campaigns with victories, and sit joint-top of Group D heading into
their meeting in Recife on Friday.
Italy will fight to win this game to secure their qualification because any error here might cause them to wait till the last group fixture to guarantee their place in the last 16. With a possibility of Buffon's return they are certain not to repeat Uruguay's error. Italy possess much quality and I see them earning a hard fought victory here.
Verdict: Italy to win
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