New Zealand's first opponents at the Fifa Under-20 World Cup were made to feel right at home on their arrival in the country today.
Ukraine touched down at Auckland Airport this morning to a rousing reception from the local Ukrainian community, looking forward to cheering on their side when theyface New Zealand in the tournament's opening match on May 30.
Members of Auckland's Ukrainian community, clad in the nation's traditional blue and yellow colours, sung the Ukrainian national anthem and presented the team with a traditional gift of sourdough bread and salt.
The team were also greeted by a performance from Tainui's Haka Legend group and words of welcome from Auckland Council representatives as the host city.
In welcoming Ukraine to Auckland, ATEED's Martin Fairweather said it was fantastic to see the diversity of people coming from all over the world for this great tournament.
"Despite being a long way from home, the Ukrainian expat community is rallying its support and we look forward to some spectacular football," he said.
Ukraine has made it to the last 16 in two previous appearances at the Fifa U20 World Cup.Following the opening match against New Zealand they will play United States and Myanmar in an attempt to reach the 2015 tournament's knockout stages.
The Kiwi team, meanwhile, will be officially welcomed to the tournament at Aotea Square on May 26.
