Havana, September 6  (JIT)-- The bulk of the Cuban national soccer team that will make its debut at the highest level of the CONCACAF Nations League 2023-2024 arrived in Santo Domingo on Tuesday.

The players under the command of Yunielys Castillo held their first training session at the hotel where they are staying.

The activity, based essentially on stretching and acclimatization, was used for group dynamics and to welcome the new players.

The contagious joy and camaraderie of a harmonious and cohesive group could be felt on the court.

Precisely on this point, the coach emphasized: "This is not a group marked by hierarchies or origin. Those with more experience and those with less have the same role: to defend the national colors and contribute to the team".

The afternoon schedule was favorable to take shelter from the intense heat that plagues this Caribbean island, although the intensity of the exercise was not very demanding. 

"I am very happy to return to another call-up with my national team. It is always nice to meet again. We are focused on the match that awaits us to do our best," attacker William Pozo told JIT.

"The new coaching staff has received us in the best way, they are very professional and we hope that everything goes as planned," added the player of KTP Kotka in the main Finnish league.

The training also served to corroborate the excellent form of Pinar del Río centerback Modesto Méndez, fully recovered from a flu-like condition he suffered in recent days. 

"I feel good, recovered and eager to contribute to the team. I had a good feeling in training and I hope it will be like that from now on," said the player, a key player in the backline of the Cuban national team.

On Wednesday, the team will train in full and begin the tactical training for the clash against Haiti on September 8.