World Cup: Must watch game on Friday

In just over a week since the commencement of the World Cup, the tournament has already provided many excellent games, highlights, goals, drama, and much more.

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On Friday, Soccer fans will be treated to yet another slate of excellent games featuring the world’s best soccer players playing at the highest level. Today’s must watch game is undoubtedly the Group D matchup between Italy and Costa Rica live on ESPN at 12 p.m ET from Arena Pernambuco in Recife, Brazil.

Both teams won their first matches in Group D against some very tough opposition. Last Saturday, Costa Rica took on Uruguay, albeit without Luis Suarez, and won 3-1 after a stellar performance. Later on in the night, Italy took on England without their staple goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon in the net. Regardless, the team pulled off a gritty victory by defeating the English side 2-1 thanks in large part to Mario Balotelli.

Both teams are vying for the first place slot in Group D today, but both hope to make it to the knockout stage of 16.

Buffon will likely be back in the net and will be starting for Italy, although he is still ailing from his injuries to his knee and ankle. Costa Rica’s strikers like Joel Campbell will need to be at their best in order to get past Buffon today if he plays. If Buffon can not play, Salvatore Sirigu will start once again.

England is hoping for Italy to win their last two games if they have a chance to advance to the knockout stage with goal differential, but their chances are very slim. Right now, this group is a battle between Italy, Costa Rica, and Uruguay as the top two teams will advance. Today’s game will weigh heavily on the outcome of this group.

Remember to stick with FanSided throughout the day as we will have full World Cup coverage including GIF’s, results, and off the field news.