The match between Venezuela and Costa Rica at the Tournoi Maurice Revello on 05 June 2023 certainly provided one for the footballing history books. It was not just high-scoring, but perfectly encapsulated the strategic intricacies that youth football, despite its ostensible inexperience, is capable of demonstrating. The game ended with Costa Rica Youth edging a 5-4 victory over Venezuela Youth.

Despite being the losing side, Venezuela controlled much of the game, dominating corner kicks (8 to 2). However, their failure to convert these set piece opportunities was a key factor in their defeat. While having a single offside played out, they displayed a lack of discipline with 21 fouls and picked up 4 yellow cards. This could point to a strategy of high press and aggressive tackling, which Costa Rica navigated effectively by scoring 5 goals.

Costa Rica, despite being outperformed in terms of corners and committing fewer fouls (15 against 21), showed their clinical edge in front of goal. They scored 5 goals despite being flagged offside 3 times. They also demonstrated a better discipline level, picking up only 2 yellow cards. Their composure and precision in attack were pivotal in achieving the final result.

However, Venezuela's aggressive tactics also played a significant part in their downfall. They received their first yellow card just after the second-half whistle, indicating a possible shift to a more confrontational strategy. Two more were collected before the 60-minute mark, and a fourth appeared in the final 15 minutes. It's notable here that all the Venezuelan yellow cards emerged in the second half, suggesting a loss of discipline as the game wore on.

In contrast, Costa Rica displayed their tactical maturity by keeping a level head. Their yellow cards came at the 35-minute mark in the first half and slightly after the hour in the second half.

It is clear that statistical figures have traced the narratives of this encounter. Costa Rica’s display of controlled aggression and better discipline led them to a well-fought victory despite their fewer corner kicks. The success of Venezuela's aggressive but ultimately risky gamble will undoubtedly fuel discussions for their further games. This analysis highlights the impact of tactical decisions and team discipline on the final outcome of a match for bettors to consider carefully.

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