21 Jun 2014

Costa Rica shock Italy and end England's hopes in Brazil

11:57 am on 21 June 2014

Costa Rica produced another huge upset to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the second time with a 1-0 Group D win over Italy that also ensured England were eliminated.

Bryan Ruiz headed powerfully home a minute before half-time to leave Costa Rica fans dancing in the sunshine at Recife's Pernambuco arena.

Costa Rica moved top of the group with six points, having already beaten Uruguay in their first game, while Italy, three points adrift, now need at least a draw from their final game against Uruguay, also on three points, to go through on goal difference.

In making the last 16 for the first time in 24 years, the Central Americans ensured England became the latest team to make a surprise early exit, leaving at the group stages for the first time since 1958.