MetroStars midfielder Pablo Brenes has a new title to add to his resume - Olympian. Brenes recently returned from his stint with the Costa Rican Olympic team in Athens, Greece. Costa Rica advanced to the quarterfinals of a major tournament for the first time. Although the "Ticos" fell short to eventual gold medal winners Argentina, Brenes had a great experience and played an integral role in his team's success. Recently, MetroStars.com caught up with Brenes to get his thought on the Olympics and his return to the Metros.
MetroStars.com: You recently participated in the Olympics with Costa Rica. How was that experience?
Pablo Brenes: It was a lot more than I expected. I was told it was a beautiful experience, but it was incredible. The opening ceremony was the best event I have ever been to and the competition was excellent. We, Costa Rica, have not been there in the last 20 years and it was the first time that went to the next round.
MetroStars.com: You scored a goal and an assist in Costa Rica's upset over Portugal, thereby advancing your team further in the tournament. What are your thoughts on that?
PB: It felt pretty good because we had played two games prior to playing Portugal without scoring. Without scoring in that game, we knew we could not advance to the next round. I was very lucky that I was the person who scored the last goal. I was very happy.
MetroStars.com: How was it coming back to the MetroStars?
PB: I felt a lot better than when I first came here because I knew everybody and I knew how the team worked. So I felt like I was coming back to family and there was not a big difference.
MetroStars.com: After Joselito Vaca was injured during Sunday's match against the Columbus Crew, head coach Bob Bradley turned to you to come into the game. What was it like being back on the field with the MetroStars for the first time in months?
PB: I wanted to play, but my legs felt pretty heavy. I was very happy to play and was happy because we tied, but we have to do a little bit better if we want to be champions.
MetroStars.com: What are your thoughts on the team for the remainder of the season?
PB: If we keep playing like we have been playing, I don't think we face any obstacles in getting to the final round.
MetroStars.com: How have you adjusted to moving to the United States since joining the MetroStars?
PB: I have friends that have come to my house and spend time with me. They teach me about the culture, so I spend a lot of time with them.
