FC Barcelona took on Italian giants AC Milan from the Serie A in their final game of the pre-season tour of the United States of America in a match-up that saw La Blaugrana emerge as 1-0 victors.
The game itself was comprised of intensity and quality that was displayed well within the very first ten minutes of the game with both Barcelona and Milan exerting as much energy as possible to remain in control of both possession and the proceedings of the game.
Both Raphinha and Abde were consistently causing problems for Milan on either end of the two wings in attack and allowed Barcelona to be presented with some of the most promising moments from the match on an offensive front.
As Milan got into the game more and more, however, the experience of their midfield began to showcase against a rather inexperienced and young Barcelona outfit fielded by Xavi in the first half of the game.
Pedri was also at the forefront of the display at the Allegiant Stadium as he would showcase from time to time his magical feet either by trickling masterfully between defenders or connecting a pass no one could see coming.
Rafael Leao was also a promising threat from the perspective of AC Milan as he was constantly engaged in duels against both Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo as the Barcelona defenders looked to keep him at bay, as well as some help from goalkeeper Inaki Pena.
The first half ended scoreless as both teams looked defensively solid and managed to subdue most of the attacks that came from either side from developing into any great chances.
The second half then saw Barcelona bring on Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati, Frenkie De Jong, Sergi Roberto, and Alejandro Balde from the get-go in what was a genuine indication of intent from Barcelona to increase their tempo in the second half.
Ansu Fati ended up being the key to breaking the deadlock. The young La Masia gem would cut the ball onto his right foot and smash a powerful effort into the top corner of Milan’s net taking the score to 1-0.
The rest of the game was an onslaught of energy from FC Barcelona who were both aggressive in their offensive attempts and composed in their domination of the midfield.
A key component in helping Barcelona maintain control in the second half was the inclusion of Frenkie De Jong, with the Dutchman’s supreme awareness and unquestionable vision both being at display as he worked his magic.
The second part of minutes in the second half was then given as a test run to some notable youngsters from La Masia as well as Mikayil Faye, the new arrival from Croatia’s second division.
The match would finally end after 2 minutes of stoppage time following the 90 minutes as FC Barcelona emerge as victors on the final outing of their pre-season tour of the United States. Barcelona now look towards facing off English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for the Joan Gamper trophy before they officially kick off their season.
