SAN JOSE, March 2 (Xinhua) -- New Costa Rica manager Fernando Batista said Monday that his team will prioritize attacking football as he begins planning for the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifying cycle.

Batista made the comments during his official presentation to the media at the National Theater in the capital San Jose.

"I am very happy to be in charge of such an important national team," the Argentine said. "I'm motivated and feel a sense of responsibility to do well."

"It will be a team that takes the initiative on any pitch, in any country. We'll be an intense team that knows what it has to do on the pitch, with players who make good decisions regardless of any system or tactics that we may adopt in different matches."

Batista replaces Miguel Herrera, who was sacked in November 2025 after the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

It marks the first time the Central American team has missed the tournament since the 2010 edition in South Africa.

"I feel like this opportunity has come at a good time," the 55-year-old said. "I've gained more experience with different national teams that have helped me grow a great deal. I feel ready for the challenge of this project that begins today."

Batista had been out of work since parting ways with Venezuela's national team in September 2025. He has also had spells in charge of youth teams for Argentina, Venezuela and Armenia over a managerial career spanning more than two decades.

He is scheduled to make his debut as Costa Rica boss in a March 27 friendly against Jordan. ■