Andy Rojas and Joseth Peraza: Costa Rica’s Emerging Football Stars

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Attacking Football

·3 January 2025

Andy Rojas and Joseth Peraza: Costa Rica’s Emerging Football Stars

Costa Rica is no stranger to producing footballing talent, but even the most passionate fans were pleasantly surprised to see two familiar names alongside the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Lamine Yamal, Jorrel Hato, and Archie Gray on the CIES Football Observatory’s list of teenagers with the most senior minutes worldwide. Among global football’s emerging stars, Andy Rojas and Joseth Peraza stood out as representatives of a nation not often associated with rubbing shoulders at the top table of elite youth development.

Ranked 6th and 8th on this prestigious list, their inclusion signals a growing shift in how Costa Rica is nurturing its next generation, and their performances on the pitch have made it clear they belong in such company.

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Andy Rojas: The Prodigious Attacker

At just 18 years old, Andy Rojas is already a name on everyone’s lips in Costa Rica. Playing for the storied Herediano, he’s quickly risen from a promising academy product to one of the team’s most influential players.

The Swiss Army Knife of AttacksRojas is the type of forward coaches love—versatile, fearless, and clinical. Though primarily deployed as a winger, his skill set allows him to excel across the front line. Whether it’s darting runs down the flanks or popping up in central areas to finish off a chance, Rojas offers unpredictability in the final third. He’s not the tallest, but his low centre of gravity and rapid acceleration make him a constant headache for defenders.

It’s not just his attacking instincts that make Rojas stand out. His decision-making in tight spaces and ability to pick out teammates under pressure show maturity beyond his years. This season, his goals and assists have been vital for Herediano, particularly in high-stakes encounters like their CONCACAF Champions Cup matches.

“Andy Rojas is a young player who plays with the personality of an established professional. He always asks for the ball, gets involved in the game, and takes on responsibilities. He’s intense when attacking and doesn’t shy away from defensive duties. He usually plays as a winger on either side but can also operate as a centre forward despite not being very tall. On the wing, he excels in 1v1 situations, and when centralised, he makes short, rapid diagonal runs that break defensive lines. This year, he played extensively for his team, Herediano, and also debuted with the senior national team, where he even scored. He was part of the Copa America squad and also featured in the U-20 World Cup qualifiers. It’s been a very demanding calendar for him.” Tomás Fonseca of Tigo Sports Costa Rica

A Relentless DriveFootball in Costa Rica is as much about character as it is about skill, and Rojas embodies that spirit. Described by local journalists as “fearless on the ball,” he doesn’t shy away from responsibility, often taking the lead in key moments. That self-belief has translated seamlessly to the international stage, where he’s already made an impression with the Costa Rican senior team.

Andy Rojas has been linked with a move already away from Costa Rica, with the New York Red Bulls being linked with his signature. With the Vice President of Herediano saying that the only thing left on the deal was the player’s signature.

During the summer he was linked with a move to Scotland’s SPL leaders Celtic and admitted his dream was playing in Europe.

“Nothing is known about my future yet. I am happy to win my first title with Herediano. I have to focus on being here until I am told something differently. I have to wait and see what happens. I’m calm, I’m still here in Costa Rica and the time will come, right now, I’m only thinking about being professional. But I have always dreamed of playing in Europe and I hope it comes true.”

One thing is for certain: The Best Young Player of the Costa Rican Apertura 2024 won’t be in Costa Rica for much longer.

Joseth Peraza: The Towering Defender

While Rojas dominates the headlines with his attacking prowess, Joseth Peraza has been quietly making waves at the other end of the pitch. At 19, the 1.88m centre-back has become a crucial figure for AD San Carlos, a club renowned for its commitment to developing young talent.

An Organised, Assured DefenderPeraza’s strengths lie in his ability to read the game. While not blessed with blistering pace, his positional awareness allows him to stay one step ahead of attackers. Whether it’s cutting out through balls or timing his tackles to perfection, Peraza exudes composure. His aerial dominance is another weapon in his arsenal, making him a formidable presence in defensive and attacking set-pieces.

“Peraza is a tall centre-back who has been a consistent performer for San Carlos for quite some time. He is efficient, solid, strong in aerial duels, and good with his feet. He’s not particularly fast but compensates with excellent positioning and an ability to read opponents’ movements. For his club, he plays as a right-sided centre-back in a back four. His full-back often ventures forward, and Peraza has no problem stepping out to cover the flanks. He was a sparring partner for the senior national team during the Copa America and has also been called up for several senior national team microcycles.” Tomás Fonseca of Tigo Sports Costa Rica

What’s most impressive about Peraza is how seamlessly he’s adjusted to the demands of senior football. Unlike many young defenders who struggle with physicality, Peraza has thrived, regularly coming out on top in duels against experienced strikers.

A Club That Believes in YouthAD San Carlos might not have the financial muscle of Herediano or Saprissa, but they’ve carved out a reputation for developing top talent. Peraza is the latest example of this philosophy. The club has built its defence around him, and his performances have been pivotal in stabilising their backline. As he continues to gain experience, it’s likely we’ll see him taking on a leadership role both at the club and international levels.

Shared Recognition on a Global Scale

Both Rojas and Peraza received a significant nod of approval when they were ranked 6th and 8th, respectively, on the CIES Football Observatory list for teenagers with the most senior minutes globally. This has brought eyes onto them from more than just Costa Rica—it’s an acknowledgment of their growing stature and potential in world football.

“Both players have great potential but are already well-established in Costa Rica’s top division. They are composed and mature beyond their years.”

For Rojas, the spotlight is already bright, given his senior international debut and participation in tournaments like the Copa America. Peraza, though still awaiting his first senior cap, has consistently featured in training camps and as a sparring partner, a sign that he’s firmly on the radar of national team selectors. It is only a matter of time before he makes the breakthrough.

While Rojas is linked with a move, so is Peraza, he has been linked with Costa Rican giants Saprissa, whilst also being linked with a move abroad. Gustavo Perez from Teletica Deportes Radio predicts Peraza may remain in Costa Rica for about six more months before potentially moving abroad.

A Bright Future Beckons

Costa Rican football fans are no strangers to nurturing hope. From the thrilling 2014 World Cup run to the emergence of talents like Joel Campbell, the country has always produced players capable of leaving a mark on the world stage. Rojas and Peraza appear next in line.

For Andy Rojas, the trajectory seems clear. With his combination of flair, versatility, and work ethic, he’s destined to be a mainstay in the national team. If he continues his current form, a move to a bigger league in Europe or South America seems inevitable.

For Joseth Peraza, patience will be key. Defenders often peak later than attackers, but his intelligence and physical attributes suggest he could follow the path of Oscar Duarte, carving out a career in a top European league.

Conclusion: Two Stars, One Nation

In Andy Rojas and Joseth Peraza, Costa Rica has found two young players who represent its footballing spirit—gritty, determined, and brimming with talent. Their contrasting styles highlight the depth of the talent pool, offering fans plenty to look forward to in the coming years.

If nurtured correctly, these two could become household names, not just in Costa Rica but across the footballing world. For now, fans can enjoy watching them light up the Primera División while dreaming of what’s to come. But Costa Rica could soon have another future star on the global stage like Keylor Navas sooner rather than later.