A country of just over five million people, Costa Rica is Central America’s most stable and democratic country. It has plenty of reasons to celebrate; the tropical country is famed for its way of life, with a robust constitution and successful political and educational systems. Home to over 500,000 species of animals, the tropical country is also a shining example of successful government and society in a region affected by violence and political instability. The military was abolished in 1949, leading to a sustained period of peace since.

As is often the case in Central America, football is the national sport. Home to Premier League cult hero Paulo Wanchope and three-time Champions League winner Keylor Navas, this relatively small footballing nation has punched above its weight in recent years. They’ll be hoping to do the same again come November 23rd. 

Footballing History

Central America’s most successful football team, Costa Rica have competed in five World Cups. They first qualified in 1990, finishing second in their group to a Brazil team containing Dunga and a young Romário.  In 2018, Los Ticos went out in the group stage after losses to Brazil and Serbia, with their only point coming in their last game after an injury-time equaliser against Switzerland.