Mexico's soccer team justifies fan jeers, pressure is a privilege, says legend Borja
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Mexico's national soccer team faces fan discontent due to recent performance and past failures.
- Former player Enrique Borja stated fans are justified in their criticism and should enjoy the pressure.
- Mexico aims to make history in the 2026 World Cup, leveraging home-field advantage at the Estadio Azteca.
The Mexican national soccer team is experiencing a disconnect with its fanbase, marked by jeers and boos at recent matches. This discontent stems from the team's performance since the Qatar 2022 World Cup, which included a failure to advance, changes in management, and losses.
Former national team star Enrique Borja acknowledged the fans' frustration, stating their demands are justified. He emphasized that the pressure of playing for Mexico is a privilege few experience and should be embraced. "Of course the public will demand, but the privilege of having pressure is for few; you have to enjoy it," Borja told EL UNIVERSAL Deportes.
Borja believes the fans have the right to express their dissatisfaction, as they identify with the players and the team's struggles. He noted that while Mexican fans are generally loyal and supportive, their complaints are a natural consequence of the team's performance and the ongoing changes within Mexican football.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, which Mexico will co-host, Borja stressed the importance of the team leveraging its home-field advantage. The Estadio Azteca, also known as the Estadio Ciudad de Mรฉxico, should be a significant factor. "Making history is reaching where we have never reached, and hopefully, we will. We have an advantage, now we will play at home, and if they advance, they will play at the Azteca again. Mexico must understand this to have the support of its public, and that is wonderful," he concluded.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.