Barcelona beat Egyptian club Al Ahly 2-1 in the 61st Joan Gamper Trophy, with Hamza Abdelkarim scoring against his former club as manager Hansi Flick fielded a strong starting XI before the start of the La Liga season.
The result gave Barcelona positive early impressions despite the narrow winning margin, according to Catalan newspaper Sport.
Sport highlighted Flick’s continued faith in Xavi Espart as an important player, while Abdelkarim was handed a starting place against Al Ahly, the club he previously represented.
“It is also striking that Barcelona started with three left-footed players in attack,” the newspaper added.
Barcelona player ratings
Joan Garcia – 6: spectator
The Barcelona goalkeeper had very little to do during the first half and was required to make only one save, which was comfortable.
Eric Garcia – 6: reliable
The versatile defender started at right-back. He did not produce a spectacular performance but carried out his responsibilities effectively, as he so often does.
Jules Kounde – 7: composed
The France defender returned to his natural position at centre-back and looked comfortable throughout. Kounde appeared calm in a role where he excelled during his time at Sevilla. Although Al Ahly did not seriously test him, he made a positive impression.
Gerard Martin – 6: corrective
Martin continued in the left-sided centre-back role. He was alert and quick, avoided mistakes and helped provide Barcelona with a degree of defensive security.
Alejandro Balde – 7: creator
The left-back repeatedly pushed forward, making good use of Raphinha’s movement. His persistence was rewarded when he delivered an excellent pass for Abdelkarim, who converted it to give Barcelona the lead.
Marc Bernal – 7: enthusiastic
The midfielder looked in good condition and showed his desire to compete for a starting place despite the signing of Rodri. His generosity and tactical intelligence made him a consistent source of support for his team-mates, while he also impressed when carrying and distributing the ball.
Xavi Espart – 8: outstanding
Espart started in midfield and operated in a role similar to Pedri’s, with a tendency to move towards the left. He played at a faster tempo than those around him and combined intensity, aggression and accurate passing. He won back a number of balls and came close to scoring what would have been a fitting reward for an excellent display.
Fermin Lopez – 7: energetic
The attacking midfielder created a clear chance after rounding the goalkeeper and also fashioned an excellent opportunity for Raphinha. He was one of the game’s most prominent players and made his usual contribution to Barcelona’s defensive work.
Lamine Yamal – 6: relaxed
Yamal still needs time to recover his best form. He misplaced a few passes that he would usually complete, but offered flashes of his exceptional talent. He appeared to enjoy the match, although he is still rebuilding his rhythm, and improved gradually as the game progressed.
Hamza Abdelkarim – 7: determined
The Egyptian forward started against his former side and had one clear opportunity, but his eagerness to score led him to rush and stray offside. He later opened the scoring with an excellent attacking move and a fine left-footed finish, strengthening his prospects with Barcelona’s first team.
Raphinha – 8: complete
The Brazil winger returned to the left-wing position, one of his strongest roles. He produced his customary bursts forward and direct running, while coming close to scoring with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area. His finishing is not always precise, but his commitment was total, illustrated by the strength of his defensive recovery in the 27th minute. Raphinha won the penalty and converted it himself.
