It was a sad day not only for Italy, but also for England today when Costa Rica's gritty performance and clear strategy had won them a crucial match against the Italians, the New York Times reported. The win had secured Italy a spot in the knock-out rounds to win the coveted World Cup championship.
On the other hand, the weather in Arena Pernambuco in Recife had clearly gotten into the Italians. Prior to the match, Italian coach Cesare Prandelli hinted that his team might be affected with the suffering weather in the stadium, and it clearly showed in their performances. The Times said the Italians lacked imagination, and will, and made poor passes, which was evidence that they have failed to adapt to the humid weather. Mario Balotelli, who had two chances at securing a clear goal for his team, came out flat, just like the rest of his teammates in the first 45 minutes of the game.
The heat might have been too much, and was further aggravated when a blown call by the referee waived a penalty. SB Nation said that the heat of the game continued outside the field when both of the teams left the pitch together for a halftime break. There were no reports that explained the halftime scuffle, but it could be for a fact that much was at stake for both Costa Rica and Italy.
It is not known whether punishment is accorded to off-field altercations, but the sports blog said none were issued for either of the team.
Nonetheless, it was overall a good day for Costa Rica, as it advances from Group D by earning six points. The Sydney Morning said that it was the second time the country have reached the last 16 in the World Cup. The first time would have been back in 1990. On the other hand, England would have again to try harder in the European Championships.
On the question of whether England coach Roy Hodgson would be keeping his job after his team's early exit from the World Cup, English Football Association chairman Greg Dyke was quoted as saying, "We are supportive of Roy Hodgson and would like him to stay as manager. We do not see any value in changing. We think Roy has done a good job and it is an approach over four years and we hope to do better in the European Championships."
