Serbia topped a tough group in qualifying, although still made the baffling decision to sack Slavoljub Muslin. Yet, judging by their recent form, Serbia are the favourites, having gone unbeaten in five of their last eight games, (W4, D1, L3), albeit against weaker opposition than Costa Rica.
Costa Rica lost their final two friendly games by a humbling aggregate 6-1 scoreline. Forebodingly, both were played in Europe, contributing to Costa Rica’s poor record from their last eight games overall (W2, L6). Furthermore, the Tico’s have scored more than a single goal in only one of their last ten games.
Considering this group contains both Brazil and Switzerland, these two teams are outsiders to win the group. Thus, a win is crucial for both teams where progress to the knockouts is concerned. This will be the first meeting between the sides in history.