Costa Ricans impressed

Costa Rican women’s football team physical trainer Bryan Mora (left) and national team director...
Costa Rican women’s football team physical trainer Bryan Mora (left) and national team director Diego Brenes check out Forsyth Barr Stadium in preparation for the Fifa Women’s World Cup in July. PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSON
Diego Brenes and Bryan Mora could not have been more excited to visit little old Dunedin.

Granted, it is far away from the rainforests and beautiful beaches of their homeland Costa Rica, but there is still plenty to love.

The Costa Rican women’s football delegates toured Forsyth Barr Stadium, training facilities, hotels and the city, in preparation for the Fifa Women’s World Cup in July.

Brenes, the national team director, and Mora, the team’s trainer, were ecstatic with their visit, calling the stadium, where Costa Rica will play Japan on July 26, "magnificent".

"It’s a nice stadium," Brenes said.

"The roof just [makes] it a little bit warmer and a very good atmosphere because it contains the sound.

"The stands are very close to the field, so pretty sure that will make a great environment during matches."

They were impressed by Dunedin’s historic buildings, including the railway station, and the amount of green space throughout the city.

Costa Rica, which will be based in Christchurch, will make only its second World Cup appearance, after first qualifying in 2015.

It failed to secure a spot for the 2019 edition, but it was exciting to be returning this year, he said.

"Especially for the players, for the girls, it’s a dream come true to be part of a World Cup.

"Our work is getting everything ready for them to enjoy that experience, to be a lifetime experience for them, not only on the field, out of the field, too."

New Zealanders had been very welcoming during their tours and he hoped the country continued to embrace the teams during the World Cup.

"Hopefully, the tournament will be a great opportunity for Kiwis to enjoy women’s football.

"I think you have a history of loving the sports, and outdoor activity in general, and also a history of empowering women.

"I think this World Cup kind of bring this all together and hopefully it will be a great experience for not only us ... but for people in Dunedin and New Zealand in general."