Champions USA have touched down in New Zealand to begin the defence of their Women's Football World Cup crown this month.
Hours after dispatching Wales 2-0 in their final build-up match at San Jose, the Americans have been ushered bleary-eyed through Auckland Airport, as they prepare for their tournament opener against Vietnam at Eden Park on July 22.
International superstars of the women's game, the USWNT are very familiar with their new surroundings, after visiting for two match against the Football Ferns earlier this year.
"For us, the preparation for the World Cup started a long time ago," said coach Vlatko Andonovski. "We were here in January and had a great experience, so we almost feel like home again.
"If definitely feels more comfortable - it's the third time in the last eight months personally, but the team has been here before. We had great hosts and we started working with the community.
"We want to become New Zealand's second-favourite team."
Despite the early arrival, the Americans were greeted by enthusiastic fans, some of whom will travel around the country - and beyond - to see their heroes in action.
"It's really amazing, just the level of play these girls can do," said ex-pat American Carrie Castronova. "I'm baffled by it.
"To see them in person and to be so close to that, especially with three young girls, it really is amazing.
"They are so excited, they got up about 5 this morning, they made signs last night... all three play soccer and these are the women they watch."
Team Castronova have tickets to eight games throughout the tournament, including the Sydney final, hoping to support their team at every opportunity.
"We've been in New Zealand for almost 10 years, so this is home now for us," said Castronova. "We're still USA fans and when you follow football, they are amazing, so they're certainly a team to watch."
