Costa Rica and Zambia have both been eliminated from World Cup contention after suffering back-to-back defeats in New Zealand. However, both will have the opportunity to end their campaign on a high note when they lock horns at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Monday.
Women’s World Cup 2023 Preview
It has been a disappointing Women’s World Cup campaign for both Costa Rica and Zambia, as both have already been mathematically eliminated at the group stage. Costa Rica suffered a second straight defeat at the competition on Wednesday, as they were easily beaten by Japan in Dunedin. For the second straight match, the Central American side failed to find the back of the net.
The defeat means that they have now exited the competition at the group stage for the second straight time. They previously finished third in their group at the 2015 World Cup after claiming two draws. However, they were unable to emulate that record this year, and their wait for a first ever win at the competition has continued.
Zambia have found matches in the World Cup far too hot to contend with, as they sit bottom of the Group C standings after two rounds of matches. There was quiet confidence that the African nation could out-perform their odds at the tournament this year after a shock win over Germany in their warm-up matches, but that level of performance hasn’t been seen in their opening two matches.
Zambia were easily beaten by a five-goal margin in their opening match against Japan, and they didn’t fare much better in their second match against Spain; once again conceding five goals. Zambia tired in the closing stages, and allowed Spain to score three in the final 20 minutes.
Costa Rica vs Zambia Head to Head
This will be a first meeting between the sides. Furthermore, it will be the first time that Costa Rica has come up against African opposition at the World Cup. But, they have lost each of their last three against sides from the continent this year.
Costa Rica vs Zambia Prediction
The pressure will be off both of these nations as they take to the field for the final time at the World Cup this year. Neither have yet found the back of the net, but we would side with Costa Rica on Monday, as there was slightly more to like about their performance against Japan on Wednesday morning.
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