Costa Rica v Greece Tip: Minnows Eye Quarter Finals

In what looks the most unlikely tie of the last 16, Costa Rica entertain Greece with a first ever quarter-final for the victors.

The bookies have been left scratching their heads after Group D in particular went against all expectations. Italy and England have packed their bags while minnows Costa Rica progressed as group winners along with Uruguay. In truth, the Central Americans should be much shorter than a best price of 8/5 (Paddy Power) based on what we’ve seen.

They thoroughly deserved their victories over Uruguay and Italy which meant the job was done before the tame, meaningless draw with England. Jorge Pinto’s boys have nothing to fear from a Greek outfit who are here due to a high degree of fortune.

The 2004 European champions were awarded a controversial injury time penalty against the Ivory Coast after Georgios Samaras appeared to kick his opponent and fall over. Without the spot-kick, the Greeks were heading home.

This would have been little wonder after they were well beaten 3-0 by Colombia and drew 0-0 with Japan after claiming only 26% of the possession.

Greece are perhaps the least impressive nation to advance while Costa Rica are only held back in the markets by their underdog status. Based on actual play in the group stages, they deserve to be more significant favourites here.