Our prediction for this World Cup 2026 match:
Costa Rica will be aiming to extend their winning run to four games when they take on United States of America in San Jose. Los Ticos have already booked their place in the playoffs, while they have very slim chances of securing automatic qualification for the World Cup finals. Anyhow, the hope dies last, and we are positive that the hosts will leave their hearts on the field in Thursday’s clash.
A man to keep an eye on in the home team will be experienced winger Joel Campbell, who scored his 23rd goal for Costa Rica in a 2-1 win over El Salvador, while veteran Bryan Ruiz should once again start from the bench. The Yanks, on the other hand, aim to build on a thrilling 5-1 win over Panama. Given their excellent goal difference, USA are with one foot in Qatar, but they are surely capable of holding Costa Rica to a draw at Estadio Nacional. The opposition defenders should have Christian Pulisic at bay as he scored a hat-trick at the weekend.
Highlighted Player (Keylor Navas):
Keylor Navas is an exceptionally gifted goal keeper who plays for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Costa Rica national team. The 29-year-old rose through the youth ranks at Saprissa before making his professional bow with them in 2005.
After a successful stint with them, he ventured into Spanish football with a move to Albacete and then to Levante. His exploits at Levante earned him a move to Real Madrid where he quickly established as a first-team regular. Despite coming within seconds of moving away from the club to accommodate David de Gea, Navas became a crowd favorite with outstanding displays in 2015-16 season.
Navas has played over 60 games for Costa Rica having made his debut in 2008. He has represented them at the 2014 FIFA World Cup where Costa Rica were a losing quarter-finalists. Their progress in the tournament is largely attributed to the success of Navas under the sticks.