Superb Campbell scores in Costa Rica win

Joel Campbell produced a scintillating goalscoring display as Costa Rica beat Uruguay 3-1 in their World Cup Group D opener on Saturday.

The Arsenal forward was a constant danger and scored one and set up another in an eye-catching man-of-the-match display in Fortaleza.

After seeing his side go behind to Edinson Cavani’s penalty in the 24th minute, Campbell set about dragging them back into the game.

Moments later the 21-year-old, who impressed on loan at Olympiacos last season, cut in from the right and unleashed a fierce drive that flew inches wide of the near post.

After heading a half chance over the bar on the stroke of half time, Campbell came out for the second period in inspired mood, with his pace, direct running and quick feet causing major problems.

Eventually his stunning performance was rewarded with his first World Cup goal, as he lashed Cristian Gamboa’s cross beyond Fernando Muslera in the 54th minute.

Three minutes later Costa Rica grabbed the lead as Oscar Duarte headed a free kick past Muslera from close range.

The irrepressible Campbell continued to terrorise the Uruguayan backline and struck a fierce drive just wide from long range just after the hour mark.

Then he capped off a fine evening by laying on an inch-perfect pass for substitute Marcos Urena to bag a third for Costa Rica and seal a shock result.