The upcoming Copa America clash between Colombia and Costa Rica is generating significant buzz among football fans. Set to take place at the University of Phoenix Stadium, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Here, we provide a comprehensive preview, including predictions, team news, and form analysis.
Match Preview
Colombia can secure a place in the Copa America quarter-finals with a win against Costa Rica.
They currently sit atop Group D following a 2-1 victory over Paraguay. In contrast, Costa Rica surprised many by holding Brazil to a 0-0 draw in their opening match.
Colombia's Form
Colombia has been in impressive form, winning nine consecutive matches across all competitions.
Their latest victory against Paraguay highlighted their ability to convert possession into goals, despite a frustrating start. Nestor Lorenzo’s squad had 68% possession, scoring on two of their three shots on target.
The Colombians have a potent offense, netting 13 goals in their last four games.
Defensively, they have been solid, maintaining an unbeaten streak lasting over two years against CONCACAF opponents.
Costa Rica's Form
Costa Rica, on the other hand, has shown resilience. Their goalless draw against Brazil marked only the third time a CONCACAF team has managed to keep Brazil from scoring in Copa America history.
Despite having only 26% possession and a low expected goals ratio, Costa Rica’s defensive efforts were commendable.
The Costa Ricans are on a four-match unbeaten run, their longest since the lead-up to the 2022 World Cup.
However, they have struggled historically against Colombia, winning just two out of eleven encounters.
Team News
Colombia
Colombia might be without centre-back Jhon Lucumi, who was substituted early in the match against Paraguay due to an injury.
Yerry Mina is expected to fill in. Key players like Luis Diaz and Camilo Vargas are expected to continue their strong performances, with James Rodriguez providing creative spark in the midfield.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica will look to maintain their defensive solidity. Goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira, who has kept four consecutive clean sheets, will be crucial.
Youngster Jeyland Mitchell, who became the youngest CONCACAF player to start in Copa America since Joel Campbell in 2011, may feature prominently again.
Predicted Lineups
Colombia
Vargas; Munoz, Sanchez, Mina, Mojica; Rios, Lerma, Arias, Rodriguez, Duran, Diaz
Costa Rica
Sequeira; Quiros, Mitchell, Vargas, Calvo, Lassiter; Galo, Bran, Aguilera; Zamora, Ugalde
Prediction
Given their current form and historical dominance, Colombia is favoured to win this match.
Their attacking prowess and solid defence should see them through against a defensively stout but offensively limited Costa Rican side.
Our Prediction: Colombia 3-0 Costa Rica
Colombia 
Costa Rica 
