Barcelona kicked off their 2024-25 preseason campaign with an exhilarating match against Manchester City, resulting in a 4-1 victory on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time. The opening match of their U.S. preseason tour was delayed by an hour due to a storm, but the game that followed in Orlando was well worth the wait. Under new manager Hansi Flick, a youthful and dynamic Barcelona side showcased their potential with an energetic and cohesive performance.
First Half: Early Excitement
As the game began, Manchester City dominated possession, creating early chances. Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish both forced Barcelona's goalkeeper Iñaki Peña into impressive saves within the opening minutes.
Barcelona, opting for a mid-block defensive approach, aimed to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. The midfield duo of Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal stood out, seamlessly connecting defense and attack with their quick passing and sharp decision-making. Casadó’s exquisite assist led to the first goal, setting up Pau Víctor for a one-on-one with City’s Ederson, giving Barcelona the lead.
City continued to control the ball, and their persistence paid off when Nico O’Reilly scored the equalizer after a great pass from Josko Gvardiol. However, Barcelona responded swiftly, with Pau Víctor’s clever dummy allowing Pablo Torre to find the bottom corner, putting Barcelona ahead 2-1 just before halftime.
Second Half: Tactical Battle and Equalizers
The second half began with both teams retaining most of their starters. Manchester City, in search of an equalizer, kept up the pressure while Barcelona looked dangerous on the counter-attack. Pau Víctor nearly doubled his tally, but City’s goalkeeper Stefan Ortega made a crucial save.
Barcelona’s defensive changes made them more susceptible to City’s attacks. Mateo Kovacic capitalized on this, orchestrating a solo counter-attack that ended with Jack Grealish netting City’s second equalizer.
Midway through the second half, both managers made numerous substitutions, allowing more young players to showcase their talents. Robert Lewandowski made his preseason debut, and Alejandro Balde returned to action after a six-month injury absence. Despite the flurry of changes disrupting the game’s flow, the intensity picked up again in the final 10 minutes. Barcelona had a golden chance to win in regulation when Noah Darvich set up Lewandowski, but Callum Doyle made a last-ditch block.
Penalty Shootout: Barcelona Prevails
The match was decided by a penalty shootout, with Barcelona emerging victorious, winning 4-1 thanks to two crucial saves by reserve keeper Ander Astralaga. All four of Barcelona’s penalty takers converted their spot kicks, with Toni Fernández scoring the decisive penalty.
Post-Match Reflections
Hansi Flick’s debut as Barcelona manager was marked by a promising team performance. Youngsters like Casadó, Bernal, and Víctor impressed with their standout displays. Barcelona’s structure and organization, particularly out of possession, were noteworthy. The team exhibited high fitness levels and great dedication, qualities Flick will undoubtedly build upon as the preseason progresses.
This match was a positive start to Barcelona’s preseason, offering a glimpse of what fans can expect under Flick’s leadership. While there is still much work to be done, the foundations of a competitive and dynamic team are clearly being laid.
Looking Ahead
With this promising start, Barcelona will aim to build on their performance as they continue their preseason tour. The blend of youthful energy and tactical discipline bodes well for the challenges ahead, both domestically and in Europe. Fans can look forward to more exciting football as Hansi Flick’s vision for the team begins to take shape.
