As the final of the Club Intercontinental Cup approaches, Pachuca striker Borja Bastón opens up to the media on the occasion of his preparations for the battle against Real Madrid, describing his journey, his personal soccer career and his unique insights into the sport.
Facing the twists and turns of the Mexican league, Bastón said confidently, "Even though the league journey was not a smooth one, we showed extraordinary strength in this international arena and made it to the final. Now we will face the world's top giants, Real Madrid."
Talking about the upcoming clash, Bastogne was blunt: "It will be a match full of variables. Real Madrid is the strongest team in the competition, but our passion and fighting spirit will surpass everything else. We have to give our best and cherish every scoring opportunity. Whether it's against Real Madrid or another European team, it's a new challenge for us. The young players are full of desire and they have crossed the barriers to stand in this moment. Now, we have to enjoy the game while giving our best to try to win."
Baston revealed that the young players in the team are looking forward to the showdown with Real Madrid and have been asking veterans like him for advice on coping strategies. On facing Real Madrid again in the Club World Cup next June, he exclaimed, "The young players are very happy because it's a rare opportunity to play against such top opponents, and now that opportunity has come twice."
Speaking about the honor of winning the Club Intercontinental, Baston said, "It is a FIFA certified honor that adds to a career. It is a great blessing to see people cheering for the victory."
A product of the Atlético Madrid youth academy, Bastón has a special emotional attachment to the showdown with Real Madrid: "If you want to win a title, it's all the more special to play against a lifelong rival and win it." For Real Madrid's players, he focuses on the team as a whole, rather than individual stars.
Talking about his personal experience, Bastón recalls his time at Oviedo and Pachuca. Despite Oviedo's failure to reach Liga MX, he sees joining a championship team like Pachuca as a great challenge. He revealed that the experience of former Liga MX players can be very beneficial to the development of young players.
In addition, Baston spoke about his thoughts on Atletico Madrid. He believes that the team is performing well and deserves such results. On whether they can compete for titles in La Liga and the Champions League, he said, "I think that's Atletico Madrid's goal. With the players they have and the investment they've made, that should be their quest."
Finally, Baston shared an anecdote about transitioning from goalkeeper to striker. He revealed that it was his father's advice that made him move forward as the goalkeeper position was lonely and tough. Today, he has become an accomplished striker who has shown his prowess on the field.
