This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
Corazone Aquino, a 21-year-old Harambee Starlets midfielder, has been in isolation in Ourem, Portugal, since March, after signing a year-long deal with Portuguese second division side Atletico Ouriense in January.
"I had just started getting comfortable with the new teammates, and even played my debut match where we lost 2-1 but it was a good experience since I got a chance to get into rhythm with my teammates," Aquino said in a phone interview.
However, the COVID-19 outbreak has forced Aquino to be more disciplined in working out and keeping her body in tune while maintaining social distancing from the rest of the team.
"Lack of training together as a team has obviously pulled me back in terms of staying fit. But I'm glad our coaches send us work out routine videos thrice a week keeping us on toes and also reminding us to maintain our discipline while off the pitch," she added.
Before the pandemic, Aquino was already experiencing challenges as a foreigner in Portugal, including a language barrier and difficulties adjusting to the food and weather.
"We are now faced with a new challenge of financially sustaining ourselves since we are receiving half of our usual monthly salaries since the team is not making as much money. I am, however, hopeful that things will get better with time," Aquino said.
