Players and staff will train this Monday afternoon in Boca Raton eyeing Schalke 04 duel.

Felipe Torres | Goal Brasil | Atlético | Fort Lauderdale

The wait is over: Atletico has already touched American soil for the Florida Cup, as the club’s delegation headed by coach Diego Aguirre arrived in Fort Lauderdale’s International Airport this Monday (11th) morning, welcomed by enthusiastic fans.

Eager for the team’s debut at the tournament against Germany’s Schalke 04 this Wednsday (6:30 PM, EST), Galo goalkeeper Victor underlined the importance of playing tough opponents – Brazilian rivals Corinthians included – right at the start of the 2016 season.

“We’ll face some high level opponents, strong ones, which only improve our preparation”, the player told Goal. “I hope we can have a great start for this year, with a good participation at the Florida Cup”.

Fort Lauderdale roars

Atletico got off the plane way before dawn, but the ‘Massa’ was already there to welcome their favourites.

“I really wanted to watch Galo here in Florida, and now I’ll be able to follow it everywhere”, said 16 year old U.S. born Pedro Henrique Oliveira. “Luan is my favourite player, for his bravery and speed”

Players were surprised on how many fans were waiting for them at the arrival gates.

“We know that our fans always make themselves present”, full back Marcos Rocha declared. “It will be very important to have their support for our matches here in the U.S.”

No rest

Galo players won’t take it lightly in America. The squad is set to train this Monday afternoon already on Florida Atlantic University’s pitch in Boca Raton, resuming their preparations with tactical and physical activities.

After facing Schalke, Atletico will go head to head against Corinthians next Sunday (17th) at 2:00 PM (EST) in Boca Raton.

Published on January 11 - 2016, at 16:51.