Costa Rica to Face Catalonia with Keylor Navas Leading the Lineup

Costa Rica will take on Catalonia this Wednesday in a friendly match as part of its preparations for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming Gold Cup. According to Everardo Herrera, head coach Miguel “Piojo” Herrera is expected to field a mixed lineup composed of overseas-based players and domestic talents.

Veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas headlines the starting eleven, returning to the national team after completing his club season in Argentina. The projected backline features Joseph Mora, Francisco Calvo, Jeyland Mitchell, Fernan Faerron, and Carlos Mora in a five-man defense. In midfield, Jefferson Brenes, Cristopher Núñez, and Josimar Alcócer are set to anchor the play, while Álvaro Zamora and Warren Madrigal lead the attack.

The match offers Costa Rica a crucial opportunity to fine-tune tactics and assess squad depth ahead of a pivotal stretch. Though Catalonia is not recognized by FIFA, their roster traditionally features quality players from Spain’s top tiers. The game also marks an early test for Herrera as he begins to shape a new identity for the Costa Rican side.