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Rene BorjasUruguayan footballer
Date of Birth: 23.12.1897
Country:  Uruguay |
Content:
- Early Career
- Montevideo Wanderers and FUF Title
- International Career with FUF
- Triumph in the Copa Aldao
- Return to Montevideo Wanderers
- Injury and Tragic End
- Career Highlights
Early Career
René Borjas began his footballing journey with Uruguay Onward, a now-defunct club. In 1919, the team secured promotion to the Uruguayan Primera División, marking Borjas's debut in the top flight in 1920. Throughout the early 1920s, Uruguay Onward struggled to rise above the bottom half of the table, avoiding relegation only once in 1921.
Montevideo Wanderers and FUF Title
In 1923, Borjas joined Montevideo Wanderers amidst a split in Uruguayan football. The "Bohemios" competed in both the Asociación Uruguaya de Fútbol (AUF) championship as Montevideo Wanderers and the Federación Uruguaya de Fútbol (FUF) league as Atlético Wanderers. Borjas played a pivotal role in the team's FUF league title victory in the 1923-24 season, which was not recognized by the AUF after the FUF disbanded.
International Career with FUF
During his tenure with the FUF, Borjas represented the Federación Uruguaya de Fútbol international team. He made five appearances between 1923 and 1924, scoring twice against Argentina.
Triumph in the Copa Aldao
In 1924, Atlético Wanderers emerged victorious in the Copa Aldao, a tournament between the champions of Uruguay and Argentina. The decisive goal was scored by Borjas, who helped the team defeat Independiente.
Return to Montevideo Wanderers
After the dissolution of the FUF, Borjas returned to Montevideo Wanderers. He served as the team's captain and led the club to the 1925 Uruguayan championship.
Injury and Tragic End
In June and July 1931, Borjas played a crucial role in Wanderers' title defense. He scored the game-winning goal against Újpest and contributed to the victory over Ferencváros. However, during the latter match, Borjas experienced chest pain. Medical examinations revealed a serious condition, resulting in doctors advising him to rest for an extended period.
Despite his medical advice, Borjas returned to the stadium on December 19 to watch Wanderers play Defensor Sporting in a title-deciding match. During the game, Borjas suffered a fatal heart attack after Wanderers took the lead. The match was not suspended due to the concurrent game involving Nacional, Wanderers' title rivals. Wanderers emerged victorious and claimed the championship.
Career Highlights
1923-24 FUF Uruguayan League Champion (Atlético Wanderers)1924 Copa Aldao Champion (Atlético Wanderers)
1925 Uruguayan Champion (Montevideo Wanderers)
1931 Uruguayan Champion (Montevideo Wanderers)
1926 South American Championship Champion (Uruguay)
1928 Olympic Football Champion (Uruguay)
