This was a dead rubber after England’s losses to Italy and Uruguay – and there was nothing on show here to offer any belated cheer at the end of a miserable tournament.
Costa Rica’s status as the surprise package of Group D was cemented by a result that ensured they finished top – and will face Greece in Recife on Sunday.
Meanwhile, England manager Roy Hodgson has presided over a dismal campaign.
Daniel Sturridge came closest for the group’s bottom side but wasted a succession of chances while goalkeeper Ben Foster – deputising for rested Joe Hart – did brilliantly to turn Celso Borges’ free-kick on to the bar in the first half.