Diego Maradona returns to bench as Argentina beats Costa Rica 3-2 in friendly

Maradona returns as Argentina beats Costa Rica

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Diego Maradona returned from his two-month suspension to coach Argentina to a 3-2 win over Costa Rica in an exhibition match on Tuesday night.

The former star player earned himself the ban from FIFA for a foul-mouthed tirade at reporters.

The team of mostly Argentina-based player he fielded twice took the lead — through Estudiantes midfielder Jose Sosa in the 11th minute and Rosario Central defender Guillermo Burdisso in the 38th.

Costa Rica, also with a young team, found an equalizer on both occasions: Saprissa midfielder Michael Barrantes scored in the 21st and Universidad striker Diego Madrigal tied it again in the 77th.

Arsenal’s striker Franco Jara hit the winner for Argentina in the 80th minute.