While a few players like Spain’s Sergio Canales (Real Madrid) and Brazil’s Philippe Coutinho (Inter Milan) have already made it at big European clubs, most players are hoping the Under-20 World Cup in Colombia will be a springboard to success.

Brazilians Oscar, Henrique, Danilo, Bruno Uvini and Casemiro are among the players who could be leaving home soon to sign with a European club.

“Everybody is anxious, trying to show how well they can play,” the 20-year-old Oscar said. “We know the world is watching, everybody is focused on playing at their best.”

Joel Campbell's two goals for Costa Rica only confirmed his status as one of the top talents to come out of Central America in the last decade.

“I’m motivated to play my best, this World Cup is like a shop window,” said Campbell, who is expected to leave Saprissa for Arsenal. “I’m confident that very good things will come in the future, but my responsibility is to help [Costa Rica].”