Despite bowing out of the tournament disheartened by tournament favorites Japan, Brazil left Papua New Guinea with a lot of fond memories and experience to take back to their home country.
The South Americans were sent-off with souvenirs and well-wishes from the local fans at the Jackson’s International Airport today.
Brazil landed in Port Moresby before the start of competition; they were greeted with a rousing welcome of smiles from the local fan base at Jacksons International Airport.
The team were set-off on a high going into the tournament with a positive feeling.
And indeed they were crowd favourites throughout the tournament, but sadly couldn’t get past the might of Japan in the quarter-finals yesterday which saw them eliminated.
The South Americans left the country today with mixed emotions, sad to exit the tournament earlier than expected, but a rather satisfied coach, Dorival Bueno, said the team has gained a lot from this tournament.
In a small but emotional farewell meeting, the players exchanged their jerseys with hugs and well-wishers from their beloved fans.
Gabi Nunes, for one, couldn’t let the moment pass, putting on a brief show for the fans while her team-mates joined in with the chanting.
The humble Coach Bueno thanked the fans and the people of Papua New Guinea for the wonderful experience.
They came to play football, smiling and dancing on arrival and leaving with fond memories and souvenirs with each player and coaching staff having stories to share with their families back home.
A true testament of the spirit of football.
