Kolarov stunner helps Serbia win

Win puts East European country in a strong early position in Group E

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Aleksandar Kolarov’s brilliant second-half freekick gave Serbia a 1-0 victory over Costa Rica in their opening World Cup group match in Samara yesterday.

The Roma defender made the crucial breakthrough early in the second half with a magnificent effort, and although Serbia missed chances to further extend their lead, they were not overly troubled by the Costa Ricans.

The win puts Serbia in a strong early position in Group E ahead of games against Brazil and Switzerland as they look to reach the last 16 for the first time since becoming an independent country.

Costa Rica started brightly, with Vladimir Stojkovic diving to save at the feet of Marcos Urena, before Giancarlo Gonzalez headed straight at the Serbia goalkeeper.

The Central Americans should have taken the lead in the 12th minute, but Bologna defender Gonzalez inexplicably headed over when unmarked at the back post with the goal at his mercy. Serbia grew into the game and started to dominate possession, with Costa Rica playing in the same style which brought them so much success in 2014, sitting deep and looking to pounce on the counterattack. Serbia did take the lead in the 56th minute, though, and in fine style. Kolarov fired a sublime left-footed free-kick over the wall, dipping into the top corner past a despairing dive from Navas. ■

Reuters Serbian players celebrate after winning their match against Costa Rica at Samara Arena yesterday.

AP South Korea’s Son Heung-min limbering up along with his teammates during training session.