Reinaldo Brenes (left) and Joseph Mora (right) joined Costa Rica's Saprissa on February 5, 2015. (Photo courtesy of Saprissa)
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica -- Saprissa announced Thursday the signing of Reinaldo Brenes and Joseph Mora to 18-month contracts.
The youthful pair are expected to add depth to a squad vying for domestic and international honors, while also being potential pillars for the future.
Costa Rica-born Brenes, 23, was a standout forward from 2010-13 at the University of Akron in the United States, gaining an earned reputation for his attacking play, off-the-ball movement and pace. He was taken by Sporting Kansas City in the 2014 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, but never appeared in a game.
"The most important thing is to demonstrate my ability on the field and the qualities that I can contribute to the team,” Brenes said. “Defending the jersey of Saprissa is a huge responsibility, but it is also a privilege only of a few. So my commitment is to work, battle and give effort every day and continue winning titles.”
Despite his youth, left-winger Mora brings significant first-division experience to the Monstruo Morado. The 22-year-old made his debut in 2013, wedging a stint with Uruguay in between two spells with Belen.
Mora represented Costa Rica in the 2009 FIFA U-17 and the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cups, appearing in seven total games. Also, in 2011, he scored the Ticos’ only goal in a 3-1 loss to Mexico in the final of the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship.
"I've always wanted to play for the biggest team in Costa Rica,” expressed Mora. “It is an honor to wear this shirt and I want to prove I can play at Deportivo Saprissa. I will give my best in every practice and game in order to help my teammates keep giving happiness to these great fans.”
Saprissa will make its return to the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals for the first time since 2011, when it hosts Mexico’s Club America in the first leg on February 25.
