Unai Aguirre's new wings soar higher: "I was a crazy goat, now I control my emotions."

The Spanish men's water polo team is playing for world gold today against Hungary (Teledeporte, 3:35 p.m.). It would be their fourth in their history, following those achieved in 1998, 2001, and 2022. At just 19 years old, Unai Aguirre ( Barcelona , 2002) defended the goal in that magical final in Budapest. And he's still there, saving goals alongside Edu Lorrio, key in the semifinals against Greece, where he saved two penalties and kept the team afloat. He's matured and is a different man. Less impulsive, more zen. Ready to give a golden send-off to his captain, Felipe Perrone.

How did you kill the adrenaline rush after the semi-finals?

It's all about controlling your emotions. Your body wants to let loose and scream, but that feeling is counterproductive. You have to keep your mind calm and enjoy the victory, but quickly focus on the final.

You already beat Hungary in the first round with a comeback victory. Is that match a benchmark?

We hope to play better. The final will be different. We've both recently won world championships, and most players know how these games are played. You have to focus on each play, take it minute by minute, and put aside thoughts like "I've got it" or "I'm done for." You have to be a powerhouse and stay true to your style.

You talk about taking it play by play and not getting carried away, but with four seconds left, did you think they would tie Greece?

The Greek player made a mistake; the pressure got to him, and Felipe Perrone picked up the ball and passed it to Munarriz. When I saw him well positioned, I thought it was possible. It wouldn't be too unusual.

Why is Hungary always the strongest rival?

They're the most decorated in history, a tradition, and they're always strong. We know them well, and this year we had two players at Atlètic Barceloneta. Miguel de Toro plays for Ferencvaros. We know the winner will be the one who's best in individual duels.

"We know that the one who is better in individual duels will win it."

You joined the team at the Tokyo Games. Before that, since 2018, Spain has become accustomed to playing in finals. What credit do you give for remaining in the elite for so long?

It's not easy, but a united group has been created that has been gaining new players, like Bernat Sanahuja, Unai Biel, Biel Gomila, myself... And the level has been maintained.

Read also Legend Felipe Perrone bids farewell as a see you soon: "I feel dizzy, but it's not a leap into the void." Alberto Martínez, Toni López Jordà

He was already a world champion in 2022. How has he changed?

That was a real achievement. I was a kid (19 years old). With my character and passion, I made a statement. I was reckless, a crazy person who didn't feel pressure or defeat. Getting past the quarterfinals was already an achievement. But in this process, you realize what defeat is, the pressure we're under or the pressure we each put on ourselves... I like that. I prefer to play knowing what I have to prove than to do it waiting for it to come. It's very difficult to reach the top and keep proving it. It's talent, not chance. All of that says a lot about my personality. I control my emotions better.

The final match of Felipe Perrone's career will be a World Cup final. How was he feeling after the victory against Greece?

We joked, telling him we'd all sign up to retire like that. Only legends, like Zidane, can do it. He was, and we are, very happy. I told him that if he were playing for fifth place, he might cry, but it's a final and all he can think about is winning, not that it will be his last game.

Read also A miracle at 0.1 seconds and Unai Aguirre put Spain in the World Cup final. Alberto Martínez

How has Perrone helped you?

I was always a crazy guy, but he stopped me. He let me fly, and warned me when it was time. He's a legend beyond just being my friend. There are teammates who end up becoming friends. We had a great time in the semifinals and we're looking forward to playing in the final and giving him a proper send-off.

The final will be around 10 PM Singapore time, so how do you deal with nerves on a day like this?

You have to carefully measure your concentration and activation times, try to stay calm, and not overthink things. Experience counts more than the game. You have to know when to go into warrior mode.

You saved two penalties in the semifinals. What's your strategy?

It depends. Against Greece, both goalkeepers were very accurate. That day, I was feeling inspired and agile, so in the first two shots against experienced players, I chose a side. Then, slower and less experienced players came along, so I decided to hold on. And it worked out well.