Costa Rica coach quits after dismal World Cup

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, July 3 (Reuters) Costa Rica coach Alexandre Guimaraes resigned today after his team's dismal performances at the World Cup in Germany where the Central American nation suffered three straight defeats.

''Each person has his own destiny. I am very clear about mine,'' Guimaraes said at a news conference called to announce his resignation.

The Brazilian-born Guimaraes said local media unfairly blamed him for their defeats against hosts Germany (4-2), Ecuador (3-0) and Poland (2-1) in Group A.

Guimaraes said he feared for his safety after he was given a rude welcome home from Germany by a group of angry fans.

It was Costa Rica's third appearance at a World Cup finals after they reached the second round in 1990 but also failed to get past the first round at the last tournament in 2002.

Reuters DH VP0028