Joaquin says Malaga can finish second in La Liga

Joaquin targets second-placed finish in La Liga for Malaga

22/12/2012 11:50:00 PM

The Spanish winger has spoken about his side's aspirations prior to them facing a difficult match against Real Madrid

Malaga winger Joaquin believes if the side can beat Real Madrid on Saturday they will be capable of fighting for second spot in La Liga.

The Boquerones have not managed to beat the Spanish giants in 29 years but Joaquin believes Real's recent form means Malaga could have a good opportunity to record a shock result.

"Yes they are stronger opponents. But we have another chance, it's a good time [to face them] and they are not at their best. We will try to go on holiday with the joy of a good win against Real Madrid," he said.

"We have two straight wins at home and are playing pretty well," he added.

Malaga are currently fourth in the league after amassing 28 points from their 16 fixtures so far, and Joaquin believes his side are capable of competing for second place with Real and Atletico Madrid.

"If we beat Madrid we will go to within two points. We are capable of fighting for those [2nd/3rd] places and while the table says otherwise, we will fight until the end," he insisted.

The winger was also keen to point out the mistakes Malaga made against Mourinho's men last season, and insisted they would have to learn from that if they are to win.

"We cannot leave the spaces against them, they are very good and fast. We must learn from those mistakes from last year and [apply] it to our football. The more we have the ball, the more they will suffer."

The 31-year-old former Valencia man also admitted he still thinks about how he almost signed for Los Blancos several years ago, adding: "I'm always asked that question. Many years have passed, but it's something that will stay there in my career."