Bora claims Costa Rica are favourites

China coach Bora Milutinovic has installed Costa Rica as firm favourites to claim the spoils in their opening Group C clash in Gwangju.

However the vastly-experienced Serb, who is coaching at his fifth World Cup, is hopeful his side can cause an upset on their finals debut.

"That's why football is a wonderful sport. Because it's not a science, and you can always give a surprise," the 57-year-old said.

Milutinovic certainly knows what it takes to make an unfancied side prosper at this level.

He coached Costa Rica in their World Cup debut in 1990 when they recorded surprise wins over Scotland and Sweden to finish as group runners-up to powerhouses Brazil.

He has also led the United States, Nigeria and Mexico beyond the first round in the World Cup finals.

And he intends to impart the secret of that success on his current team, who certainly have their work cut out to progress from a group that also includes Brazil and Turkey.

"It's important for them to control their emotions, so they can enjoy the game. They have to go on to the pitch in peace," said Milutinovic.

Milutinovic will come face-to-face with current Costa Rica boss Alexander Guimaraes, who was a player under him in 1990, and the China supremo admits it is going to be difficult putting one over his old charge.

"He's a very talented man who has built a good team," Milutinovic said.

"I'm worried not only about (Paolo) Wanchope, but about many other players who can cause us trouble."

Guimaraes believes his side are as prepared as they can be.

"Everything is perfect. The stadium is spectacular and the pitch is perfect. There's no excuses," said the Brazilian-born coach.

"We're at 100% in our preparation. We've checked everything during the weekend, and we're ready to face China.

"Of course, we are still to know how we will react when the match begins."

Guimaraes, who watched Brazil come from behind to beat Turkey 2-1, warned against underestimating Group C minnows China though.

"I guess they will attack us. We're ready to face them, even knowing that they will be quite physical.

"They have two strong and tall forwards, so we worked especially on that, mostly for the free-kicks and corners."