Vicente del Bosque admits Costa Rica was better than Spain following 2-2 friendly draw

The 2010 world champions were lucky to survive and their leader knows it as he praises the home side for the way it fought with courage against his stellar cast of players

By Salvatore Landolina

Vicente Del Bosque, Spain (Getty Images)
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque admits his side was second best to Costa Rica after escaping from its international friendly in San Jose with a 2-2 draw on Tuesday night.

Del Bosque's men were expected to hit the ground running following Saturday's loss to England at Wembley, but they stumbled once more.

The 2010 World Cup winners were pinned down 2-0 by halftime following goals from Randall Brenes and Joel Campbell. However, two very late goals from David Silva and David Villa saw the Spanish survive embarrassment.

"Costa Rica played better than us," Del Bosque told the press after the game. "They defended very well and were successful in their play.

"In today's game, you cannot undervalue any rivals. Costa Rica were an exemplary opponent and you must never think that you beat anyone easily."

Costa Rica ended its run of three consecutive defeats with the draw against Spain.

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