Borja: Facing Real Madrid with Great Enthusiasm

Borja González Tomás, commonly known as Borja Bastón, is the only Spanish player in Pachuca, the Mexican team set to face Real Madrid in the Intercontinental Cup final on Wednesday. The former Atlético Madrid player discussed his anticipation for the match in a recent interview.

Reflecting on his career, Borja acknowledged the significance of this upcoming game: "This is probably the most important match of my career. I've experienced many moments, but facing Real Madrid in an international final is a dream scenario."

When asked about the possibility of defeating Real Madrid, Borja stated: "It's not a miracle because this is football, and anything can happen in a single game. We weren't favored against Botafogo, yet we won. The same occurred against Al Ahly, a major team in the Arab world, and we advanced. While we're not the favorites against Madrid, our enthusiasm and motivation are immense. We hope to emerge victorious."

As the sole Spaniard in Pachuca, Borja has received numerous messages from Spain: "Yes, they watched the match against Al Ahly. Additionally, ten days ago, during the Club World Cup draw, we were grouped with Madrid, and friends have been messaging me. This final is something few anticipated."

Discussing Pachuca's strengths, Borja emphasized: "Our greatest weapon is our enthusiasm. This is likely the most significant game of our lives. It's rare to find oneself in such a crucial final again, and our eagerness is overwhelming."

Recalling his past encounters with Real Madrid, Borja mentioned: "I believe the last time I played against Madrid was with Alavés, and we won. I've been teammates with Dani Carvajal in Madrid's regional team and Spain's national team, and with Nacho as well. I've faced Modrić and Valverde multiple times and was teammates with Courtois at Atlético. Tomorrow will be a different story."

Having developed in Atlético Madrid's academy and being the son of former Atlético player and goalkeeping coach Miguel Bastón, Borja feels a unique sentiment facing Real Madrid: "Of course, coming from Atlético's academy, since joining at four and a half years old, Madrid has always been a strong rival, and that feeling remains within us."

Regarding his family's support, Borja noted: "Yes, they always support the team I play for, and in this case, even more so because the opponent is Madrid."