Costa Rica: Three players to keep an eye on at the 2018 World Cup

Costa Rica returns to a World Cup to try to repeat what they did four years ago in Brazil where they played in the quarter finals. For this tournament, some players return with more experience and high expectations.

Bryan Ruiz (Forward, 32, Sporting Lisbon:)

The attacking midfielder, who plays in Sporting Lisbon, is one of the best players for the Central American side . He is the natural leader for Los Ticos and the experience and dynamism he can offer his side will be crucial to try to help Costa Rica repeat the historic World Cup from four years ago.

He has been part of the national team since 2005 and became the captain of the team a few years ago. In 101 caps he has scored 23 goals. Certainly, he will be a key element of Costa Rica this summer in Russia.      

Keylor Navas(Goalkeeper, 31, Real Madrid:)

Navas is one of the best goalkeepers in the planet. Since he joined Real Madrid after the extraordinary performance he had during World Cup in 2014, he has won with Los Merengues 3 Champions League in a row in addition of 1 La Liga title, among other tournaments.

He is also another leader for Costa Rica. With over 75 caps, he will be responsible in giving serenity to his team and the order necessary for the back line. Having a good goalie is a must for any team who wishes to advance at least to the knockout round in a World Cup. For sure, Navas is one of the best in his position and his performance will be a key for Los Ticos this 2018.

Joel Campbell (Forward, 25, Real Betis:)

The young striker is going to Russia this summer to try to prove he is one of the best forwards in CONCACAF. His last team was Real Betis in Spain, but he has been part of many teams in Europe. Now, the twenty-five years old, is mature enough to be an important element for the Costa Rica team. Since 2011 he has been part of the national team in 75 occasions and has scored 15 goals.

He also comes this summer with World Cup experience he acquired four years ago in Brazil. Campbell is  considered the natural replacement of Ticos legend Paulo Wanchope, and in this tournament he will for sure have the chance to put his own name on top of the legends of Costa Rican soccer.