Doha, Qatar: Cruz Azul goalkeeper Andres Gudino says the prospect of meeting Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 would be “incredible,” as the Mexican giants prepare for their long-awaited return to a FIFA club tournament.
Speaking to FIFA, the veteran goalkeeper outlined the team’s ambitions and the motivation driving La Máquina toward global success.
For the first time since 2014, Cruz Azul are back on the international stage after capturing the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup - their record-extending seventh continental crown. Their path in Qatar begins with a blockbuster showdown against 2025 CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo in the FIFA Derby of the Americas tomorrow, with the winner advancing to face Pyramids FC in the FIFA Challenger Cup. Victories in both matches would set up a dream Intercontinental Cup final against European champions PSG.
Gudino, who has guarded Cruz Azul’s net since 2019 and remains their first-choice goalkeeper during the ongoing Liga MX play-offs, believes the team’s packed schedule is an advantage. “Being in action is always good, especially when the matches are important and difficult,” he told FIFA. “It keeps us sharp and ready.”
He described the upcoming tournament as a major source of motivation. “It’s an international competition, a FIFA competition. The biggest, high-profile teams are there, so it fills us with enthusiasm and determination,” he said.
Representing a club of Cruz Azul’s stature, he added, comes with an obligation to compete for every trophy available. On their opening clash, Gudino acknowledged the challenge Flamengo pose.
“We know their stature. They just won the Copa Libertadores and are a great team. But we are prepared and will play with full desire,” he said.
Last year’s impressive run by Pachuca, who reached the final, serves as added inspiration.
“Much respect to Pachuca, but we’re going to play our own tournament with confidence and high spirits.”
As for the possibility of facing PSG, Gudino did not hesitate: “Just knowing such prestigious teams are in the tournament inspires us. The chance of playing PSG in a final would be incredible.”
