LÓPEZ SISTERS REPRESENT PERU IN WATER POLO

They came from so far to represent her mother's country. Ana and Elisa López, who are from Spain, were asked to be part of the Peruvian water polo team and they accepted it. 

“I’m proud of representing Peru. I don't live here, but it’s my mother’s country. She was so excited to know that we were coming to Peru,” said Elisa.

The tournament’s level is very high, and playing against the Canadian or Brazilian teams is an honor for them. “Competing against big teams help us improve as athletes,” said Ana. Both of them play in the 5ta División de Honor de Waterpolo.

Meanwhile, Elisa also mentioned that “ being part of the Pan American Games is important because they feature the best countries in the Americas, and I’d never participated in such a major tournament.”

Although they did not obtain a good result, Elisa had the opportunity to score one of the two goals against Canada. “We always try to score a goal. That’s an incentive for us, and we fight for it on the field.”

The average age of the Peruvian water polo team members is one of the lowest in the tournament. The girls’ age does not exceed 20 years old. “The difference on the field when compared to other teams is obvious, but I’m sure that with the proper support this group will grow a lot and will bring many victories,” said Ana.

The López sisters said goodbye with a sensation of happiness to see how Peruvian fans supported them at all times, even if the result was not good. Her family came from Trujillo and Puno to see them in action during the match. “We leave happy because of all the love and affection we received. Even though we were losing, Peruvians were always rooting for us, and that’s something we appreciate very much,” added Elisa.

On Tuesday, Peru will end its participation against Cuba at 09:30 in Group A. To cheer up on Peruvian team, buy your tickets at lima2019.pe/tickets and go to the Villa María del Triunfo Sports Center.