City of Playford has welcomed the Panama Women’s National Football Team to the Ridley Reserve training centre in Elizabeth, ahead of their debut match against Brazil in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Prior to a special training session held last night, Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty presented the Panama women’s team with a soccer ball featuring a replica of the Indigenous art mural designed at Ridley Reserve. Ridley Reserve is the training base for Panama for the team’s first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The mural, painted by Indigenous artist Scott Rathman, will be a permanent fixture at the grounds to acknowledge people from all cultures who play sport in the area.

“Panama taking home a piece of our mural art is a symbol of the connection between our two places,” said Mayor Docherty.

“The mural welcomes Panama to the Ridley Reserve training centre and will remain forever as a legacy piece to our involvement in the third-largest sporting competition in the world.

“Through the mural, we share the story of a diverse community and how sport breaks barriers and unifies people of all backgrounds.

"We are thrilled to welcome Panama to Playford and our community can proudly share in their momentous World Cup journey.”

The gift was presented by Mayor Docherty to the Panama team Captain Natalia Mills, Head Coach Ignacio Quintana and Head of Delegation Marie Schossow with the team watching on.

Head Coach Ignacio Quintana said the Panama women’s team is grateful to the City of Playford for making them feel at home and making its facilities available to them.

“These world class facilities allow us to be well prepared for our Women’s World Cup debut.

“A lot of Latinos have come to greet us and share a practice with the players. It has been very special for them and for us, “ said Mr Quintana.

Panama will play their first game against Brazil at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide on Monday 24 July 2023.