Nertherlands v Costa Rica Tip

Costa Rica have survived against the odds for most of this World Cup and that has mainly been down to the defence. They have only conceded two goals in four matches thus far, the joint best record at the tournament, and that looks even better when you consider their last outing.

Having gone down to 10 men in the 65th minute against Greece, the Central Americans battled hard to survive extra time and a penalty shootout in thrilling fashion; goalkeeper Keylor Navas proved a hero on the night and he will taking some beating on his current form. The Levante stopper has also kept clean sheets against Italy and England.

The Netherlands started all guns blazing against Spain, but since then they have failed to really dominate any of their opponents. They trailed Mexico 1-0 until the 88th minute and this could be another tough task as they battle to cope with huge expectation.

If there is one thing this World Cup has shown is that we should stop underestimating the American nations even against the superstar European countries. This one is likely to be tight and there’s good value to be had in backing under 1.5 goals - a best price 23/20 shot with Ladbrokes.