Medford's side claimed a 2-0 win over China (Allsport)
MEDFORD: NOT CLEAR BUT WE'RE CONFIDENT
By PA Sport Staff
Costa Rican veteran Hernan Medford expects the
Central Americans to ride the momentum of their opening World Cup victory over
China into the second round.
The tournament outsiders in Group C tasted immediate success thanks to
second-half goals from Ronald Gomez (61) and Mauricio Wright (65).
Forward Medford, who famously scored the late goal to knock Sweden out of
Italia 90 when Costa Rica proved they have the mettle to survive the opening
group stage, has never lacked self-belief.
"We played a good match today," he said.
"Everybody should have more respect for us. We did well in the qualifiers, in
the Copa America and in our last World Cup. So, we must have something."
Forward Ronald Gomez, the scorer of the first goal today who set up the
second, admits the players were nervous.
"Personally, it's great beginning playing this way, but the most important
thing is that we won.
"In the first half both teams were studying the other. We were very nervous,
but after half time we improved, and we were more determined to look for the
victory."
The opposition should be more formidable in the second game.
Turkey, who at one point looked like possible winners against Brazil, are
seething after losing to a late Rivaldo penalty.
Defender Wright said: "It's a great happiness that we are leaders ahead of
Brazil, but we have to focus on our next rivals, Turkey.
"It will be very hard, and we have to be in our best condition to face them.
We're not done yet. Once we qualify for the second round, then it will be
different."
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