Costa Rica opened the Fernando Batista era with a comeback result on Friday, rallying from two goals down to draw Jordan 2–2 in an international friendly in Antalya, Turkey. The match was played at Mardan Sports Complex as part of Costa Rica’s preparation for upcoming competition, while Jordan continued its buildup for the 2026 World Cup.
After a quiet first half, the game turned in the second. Jordan went in front through Baha Faisal from the penalty spot in the 50th minute, then doubled its lead in the 76th through Ibrahim Sabra. Costa Rica looked headed for defeat before a late push changed the tone of the afternoon.
Josimar Alcócer pulled one back in the 84th minute after following up on his own missed penalty and scoring on the rebound. Warren Madrigal then rescued the draw in stoppage time, heading home in the 90+1st minute to make it 2–2 and cap Costa Rica’s comeback.
The result gave Costa Rica a mixed but useful first outing under Batista, who had only a short window to work with the group before taking the field. According to remarks released through the federation’s press office, the Argentine coach said he was encouraged by the team’s response after going behind and pointed to the energy provided by his substitutions, while also acknowledging there is still plenty to improve.
The late recovery also reflected the mood inside the squad. Alcócer said many of the players were appearing together for the first time and noted that the group is still in the early stages of adapting to Batista’s ideas. Madrigal, whose late goal secured the draw, said the team showed character by refusing to let the match slip away after falling behind 2–0.
For Costa Rica, the draw does not erase the defensive questions that appeared once Jordan found its rhythm in the second half. But it did offer a glimpse of resilience, and that may be the main takeaway from Batista’s debut. Against a Jordan side already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and training in Turkey ahead of that tournament, Costa Rica managed to respond under pressure and leave with a result after looking beaten.
Costa Rica’s next match under Batista is set for Tuesday, March 31, against Iran, also in Turkey.
