Costa Rica: Cameroon of 1990?

What an agony this rank-outsiders have inflicted on their elite opponents! England will now have to catch the early flight home for the first time from a World Cup group phase after 56 years. Ironically, it was Brazil from where they headed home playing group matches in 1958. Now, with their last group phase match against Costa Rica turning meaningless, a lot of inquest will follow the downhill fall of the English football.

It was a brutal blow to the loyal English fans. Quite understandably, the apology from an over-rated striker Wayne Roonie, who finally could score at the world stage against Uruguay, was far from enough to cool them down. England, which arguably introduced the game to the world centuries ago, ensured every facility for its players. But it hardly helped them be a team that goes all-out for a win, let alone going all the way to lift the Cup. They were just not a confident bunch that lacked pace, precision and daring. Roonie, the best bet of England, has just one notch in his 10 matches off three World Cups. Weren't England expecting too much of him?

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Costa Rica showed both England and Italy how dexterity and daring can make a big difference in today's football. It is true that Italy played unlike Italy, making too many misplaced passes, rusty defending and off-the-target shooting. But take no credit from the Costa Ricans, who believed in themselves to become the tournament darlings. They played fast and furious football, forcing their mighty opponents on the back foot.

Now, will Costa Rica be the team that fans throw their support behind when their first choice gets knocked out in the group stage? Fans loved the way Joel Campbell performed his baby celebration after scoring against Uruguay. He reminded all of Roger Milla's gyrating celebration at the flag back in 1990. Let's see if Costa Rica can match the feat of Cameroon. But I'm sure there are some more baby celebrations on the cards.