Brazilian beach surprise for Itxako

The New Year started with changes in Itxako Reyno de Navarra’s squad. Russian goalkeeper Tatiana Alizar left the Spanish club from Estella. Some weeks later the “Yellow Team” signed Brazilian goalkeeper Adriana Stefani.

Stefani was currently playing for Caixas do Sul in the Brazilian league. At the 2005 Junior World Cup she was elected best keeper, now she is facing a great challenge in the EHF Champions League.

ehfCL.com: Are you surprised, suddenly having become an EHF Champions League player?

Adriana Stefani: Yes, I am very surprised. I was on holidays during the Brazilian summer, and received the message about Itxako Reyno de Navarra’s interest while I was on the beach. But of course I had not doubt and was ready to travel to Spain only two days later.

ehfCL.com: Are you fit and ready to play right now?

Adriana Stefani: I finished the Brazilian competitions only a couple of weeks ago and since then I have been training. I was on my holidays but I feel fit.

ehfCL.com: What do you know about Itxako Reyno de Navarra?

Adriana Stefani: I played three seasons in Spain for Leon, so I know the team and the court. However, I do not know anything about the city of Estella and the fans. What I know is that the club has a great momentum and is currently on top in every competition.

ehfCL.com: What do you remember from your last game against Itxako Reyno de Navarra, in the Spanish cup last year?

Adriana Stefani: It was a good moment for me. Back then I had no chances in Leon, but I kept on working hard. I had a lot of minutes on the court in this game and felt very well. I always say that work is the best way to achieve objectives.

ehfCL.com: How would you describe yuorself as a goalkeeper?

Adriana Stefani: It is difficult to speak about myself. I am 1,85 m tall but not the quick mover type. Instead I focus on clever positioning, and work hard every day to improve.

ehfCL.com: What can you add to your new team?

Adriana Stefani: It is obvious, saves. I hope to save many shoots but I will also help my teammates if I don’t play. I am very aware of the fact that handball is a team sport.

Itxako Reyno de Navarra’s Main Round opener against the Slovenian champions from Ljubljana will be broadcast as a free-of-charge live web stream on ehfTV.com.

EHF Women’s Champions League 2010/11, Main Round, Round 1
Friday 04 February 2011, 20:15 hrs (local time)
RK Krim Mercator (SLO) vs. Itxako Reyno De Navarra (ESP)

ehfTV.com is the official Internet TV platform of the European Handball Federation and offers free live streaming as well as a video on demand service.