How Did Rashford’s Barcelona Perform in Their First Preseason Match?

Youth Leads the Way in a Match Full of Debuts

Flick fielded a recognizable starting lineup that included the debut of goalkeeper Joan García, who wore the number 1 jersey. During the first half, standout performances came from the attacking duo of Raphinha and Ferran Torres, as well as the control of Pedri and the bursts from Lamine Yamal on the wings.

The opener came in the 34th minute following a corner taken by Fermín López. After several deflections, Eric García finished the play to make it 1-0. However, Vissel Kobe responded just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Miyashiro capitalized on a mistake by Pau Cubarsí in midfield. Although Joan García made the initial save, the Japanese forward slotted in the rebound.

The second half featured an entirely new XI from Flick, including the debuts of English forward Marcus Rashford, Swedish winger Roony Bardghji, and left wingback Jofre Torrents. Other key names like Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo also came on, with Olmo playing a pivotal role as the team’s creative engine.

Bardghji and ‘Dro’ Seal the Victory

Barcelona’s high press began to suffocate the Japanese side. With Rashford attacking from the left and Bardghji from the right, the pressure mounted. The second goal came in the 77th minute following a run from Rashford, a link-up with Lewandowski, and a composed cross-body finish by Bardghji on his debut.

The night was capped by another youth moment. Pedro Fernández ‘Dro’, only 17, fired home a rebound from the edge of the box to make it 3-1. The Galician teenager impressed with his energy and confidence in limited minutes.

Next up for Flick’s side are two matches in South Korea against Seoul and Daegu, followed by the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy against Como.