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World Cup 2014: Diego Costa booed by locals during Spain v Netherlands

Atletico Madrid striker made unwelcome in his homeland

Simon Rice
Saturday 14 June 2014 00:59 BST
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Diego Costa in action against the Netherlands
Diego Costa in action against the Netherlands (GETTY IMAGES)

Diego Costa gave Spain a major boost by coming through any injury concerns to start against the Netherlands, however he was made to feel unwelcome by the locals.

The Atletico Madrid striker, who is expected to play for Chelsea next season, was born in Brazil, and even turned out twice in the famous yellow jerseys.

However, at the end of last year he requested permission to play for Spain having been granted Spanish nationality earlier in the year.

Despite having played for another nation, Costa was granted his wish and he made his debut for the reigning world champions against Italy in March this year.

At the time, Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari commented: "A Brazilian player who refuses to wear the shirt of the Brazilian national team and compete in a World Cup in your country is automatically withdrawn. He is turning his back on a dream of millions, to represent our national team, the five-time champions in a World Cup in Brazil."

It appears a view shared by those inside the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador with every touch from the La Liga winning striker being greeted with jeers.

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