A sublime free-kick from captain Aleksander Kolarov was enough for Serbia to take a vital three points in the opening match of Group E.
Serbia
One point blank save in the bread basket summed up the first half as Serbia were on the front foot with Costa Rica rarely threatening.
Dusko Tosic - 6
Branislav Ivanovic - 7
A brilliant match from the record-breaker. Ivanovic became the most capped Serbian international with his 104th match. He was immense in defence and superb going forward with Dusan Tadic.
Aleksander Kolarov - 8
An injury pre-game clouded over the skipper but some tough challenges early quashed any problems with the Serbian captain. A textbook free-kick gave Serbia the lead in the 58th minute forcing Costa Rica out of their shell.
Nikola Milenkovic - 7.5
The young central defender making his debut at the FIFA World Cup impressed next to Milivojevic. He shook off some shaky marking to deliver some positive clearances and tackles.
Luka Milivojevic - 6.5
Despite some worrying distribution at the beginning of the match, the Crystal Palace defender enjoyed a brilliant opening match at the World Cup with some astute tackles and exemplars of his aerial ability.
Related Articles

Brazil win, Colombia book Copa America knockout spot

Costa Rica hold Brazil at Copa, Colombia open with win
