SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic– With its start in the 2019 Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League a week away, Atletico Pantoja is primed and ready for its Round of 16 clash versus the New York Red Bulls.

While the squad has been busy training on the field since the beginning of January, the club has also been working diligently to make sure all Concacaf requirements are met by kick-off on February 20 at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez.

“We are doing everything that Concacaf instructed us, like the improvement of the lighting, the locker rooms, sanitary installations and the painting of the inside and exterior of the stadium,” said Atletico Pantoja General Manager Adalberto Herasme in a club statement.

“The lighting standards that the competition demands are been fulfilled and that is calming for us. Our work, approved by the Ministry of Sport, has been reflected in the entire structure, but also on the field, which can be found in optimal conditions,” added Herasme.

For Atletico Pantoja, the 2019 SCCL represents the club’s first ever appearance in a major Concacaf tournament and Atletico Pantoja is just the second Dominican club to have reached the SCCL, one year after Cibao FC in 2018.

Next week’s first leg against the Red Bulls will be Atletico Pantoja’s first match of 2019, but after a hearty slate of friendly matches, the club feels like it is prepared to take on last year’s SCCL semifinalists.

“The preparation matches have been hugely positive. Technically, we have improved significantly, for that reason we are now a team that plays faster and precise in moving the ball. At this stage, the physical preparation and mental strength are fundamental. Each one of our players can bounce back from an adverse situation and in just a few minutes, change the result,” concluded Herasme.