After narrowly missing the semi-finals of the World Cup four years ago, due to a penalty loss to the Netherlands, the world is now fully aware of this strong Costa Rican team. The Ticos are bringing much of the same players to Russia, but this time under a new trainer. A trainer who has remained with the identical tactics that worked so well in Brazil. The Costa Rican's are again expected to line up in a system that contains five in the back. They will open the tournament against Serbia, another team who think defence first, the outcome of that opening game is essential, as Brazil on paper is almost a lock for first place. Keylor Navas was phenomenal in Costa Rica's run to the top eight in world football, his performances were so good, Real Madrid snapped up the keeper immediately after the tourney. Navas has subsequently gone on to be a key part in a Real Madrid team littered with the world's best players.  Real Madrid has won the Champions League every season since he has become their number 1. Although initially not given the recognition he deserved, maybe because he is from a tiny footballing nation, there is now no questioning his ability. Now, some Real Madrid fans would admittedly prefer the Costa Rican over the always linked De Gea. The focal point and captain of the Ticos' is still Sporting Lisbon's Bryan Ruiz. Now 32, with over 100 caps to his name Ruiz is a bonafide Costa Rican legend. This team knows each other well and these players have played together so many times before, their chemistry on and off the field is perhaps their best asset. 

Head Coach: Óscar Ramírez

Population: 5 million

Appearances: 5

Best: Quater Finals(2014)

How they Qualified: Costa Rica qualified for the 4th World Cup in 5 editions of the tournament and have become a Concacaf powerhouse. The team's only loss prior to sealing qualification was away to Mexico and that was at altitude. La Sele also lost when there were already qualified away at Panama. Between those defeats were home and away victories against the USA that in the end proved costly for the Americans. Costa Rica ultimately finished second in the Hex only behind Mexico automatically securing their place in Russia.

Star Players: Keylor Navas(Real Madrid), Bryan Ruiz(Sporting Lisbon), Celso Borges(Deportivo La Coruna), Cristian Gamboa(Celtic), Giancarlo Gonzalez(Bologna)

Wildcard: Joel Campbell - Costa Rica's former manager, Ricardo La Volpe when announcing Campbell's arrival to international football said, "Who is Messi? Who is Neymar? gentlemen of the press – I present to you: Campbell. I discovered him playing with cans."The only player to score in a U20 World Cup, the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the Copa America in the same year, showed in the last World Cup what a talent he is. For many, Campbell was never given a fair shot with his parent club Arsenal. He, therefore, had to seek loan spells to get regular football. Still only 25, injuries have slowed down his progression but his cleverness and flair will always be fantastic attacking resource for Los Ticos.

Legend:Paulo Wanchope