After 12 years in the wilderness, Costa Rica returned to the World Cup their first appearance since 1990. Alexandre Guimarães was the man tasked with guiding them back.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 3 | 8 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | -1 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 9 | -9 | 0 |
Costa Rica found moments of promise but ultimately fell short of the consistency needed to progress beyond the group stage. With 5 goals in 3 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
Costa Rica experienced an inconsistent group stage, and the mixed results were not enough to go through. Their campaign featured a 2-0 win over China, a 1-1 draw with Turkey, and a heavy 2-5 defeat to Brazil. Despite moments of quality, it was not enough to advance, and Costa Rica's campaign ended at the first round.
1won1drawn1lost
5scored6conceded
Conceded 6 in 3 matches eliminated in the group stage.
Rónald Gómez led Costa Rica's attack with 2 goals at the 2002 World Cup.
6yellow
2.0per match
4 cards in a single match vs China no red cards despite the yellow count.
The tactical mind behind Costa Rica's 2002 campaign. Leading Costa Rica at his first World Cup 1 win, 1 draw, 1 loss under Guimarães.
Despite some promising performances, Costa Rica struggled to find cohesion and rhythm throughout the tournament. Their attacking flair was tempered by defensive vulnerabilities, ultimately leading to a disappointing exit from the World Cup.
