The Azzurre continue to experience wonderful support. From cheering fans during the team’s open session to a gathering with Italian compatriots organised by the Embassy: it’s an exciting time for Italy Women, who can’t wait to repay all of the affection they’ve received when they take to the pitch in New Zealand.

The Azzurre’s first open session finished with plenty of smiles. This morning, Milena Bertolini’s side got down to work in front of around 200 people, who watched on at Shepherds Park as Italy continued their preparations for their opening World Cup fixture against Argentina on Monday 24 July (kick-off at 9:00 CEST). There was an abundance of enthusiasm in Auckland, where the team already feel at home. Fans, families and lots of children were in attendance, with the players taking photos and signing autographs before returning to the changing rooms.

Meanwhile, in the early afternoon, the group received the applause of more than 100 compatriots, who wanted to get to know, greet and support the Azzurre before their World Cup campaign begins. “Even 20,000 kilometres away from Italy, there’s so much love for our shirt and colours,” said Nicola Comi, Deputy Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy. “Here, we all celebrated the team’s qualification for the World Cup and also the draw, which, fortunately for us, placed you in New Zealand. We can’t wait for the tournament to start and hope you go as far as possible. Thanks to the example you set, I hope the youngest generations can become increasingly engaged in this sport.”

Also on the stage of Shed 10 on Queens Wharf was Stefano Braghin, who thanked the Embassy and the Italian community for the support they’ve shown during the team’s first nine days in Auckland: “Thank you for coming here. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, who I have the privilege to represent on this mission in New Zealand, sends his greetings,” said the Delegation Head. “We’re delighted to be here with you; it gives us the chance to breathe the air of home. We’ll do our best because it’s a huge source of pride for a sportsperson to be able to represent their country in a World Cup. After meeting you, you’ve given us an extra reason to win our matches as we look to repay you for your extraordinary welcome.”