The coach of Costa Rica, the Colombian Luis Fernando Suárez, affirmed that his team must respond to Jamaica “with character and good play”, given the criticism it has received for the level shown in the first two days of the Qatar World Cup qualifier. 2022.
“The forms are important but for me the substance is more important and the substance is to have enough character to know what is being played, to respond to criticism with a good game and with character,” said Suárez at a press conference.
After drawing in Panama (0-0) and losing at home to Mexico (0-1), Costa Rica will host Jamaica on Wednesday with the obligation to win so as not to be left behind in the fight to qualify for the World Cup in the octagonal final of the Concacaf.
Suárez said that Costa Rica’s mission against Jamaica will be to “seek more density in the attack” and show the order that characterizes the team.
“We have to show what Costa Rica has normally always shown (…) order, individual characteristics, a team that is ahead, that gives itself totally in these games. It is to return to that, regardless of what is around, “he said.
Suárez believes that Costa Rica showed an improvement in play and possession of the ball against Mexico and affirmed that the team must remain mentally strong, because “there is the key” to improve and achieve the victory against Jamaica.
“We show improvement in possession but lack more depth and arrival in the last quarter of the court and we hope that this will improve against Jamaica,” said the coach after acknowledging in recent training sessions a special emphasis has been given to offensive play.
The coach commented that he values the tactical and physical aspects to decide whether to make changes to the starting lineup and announced that he has forward Joel Campbell to be in the game after missing the game in Panama and playing only 45 minutes against Mexico due to a sprained ankle from which he has been recovering.
Suárez accepted that “we must demand more” from Costa Rican footballers, but added that young people should be given a “waiting period” to develop their potential.
Regarding Jamaica, the coach commented that he is a rival that the Costa Rican players know because they have faced him many times and are aware of his qualities.
“It is a very fast, powerful team, with good association on the sides, which can complicate you on counterattacks. We are aware of the difficulties we may have, “he declared.
Costa Rica is seventh from the octagonal with only one point, while Jamaica has not added and is last after two days played. EFE (HN)