Barça Fail to Beat Birmingham. an 18-year-old Provides the Alibi

Barcelona began their pre-season preparations with a 2–2 draw against Birmingham City. Hansi Flick’s side fell behind through August Priske, but Hamza Abdelkarim rescued them before half-time. The 18-year-old won a penalty and then converted it himself.

Abdelkarim struck again after the break, reacting first following a move created by Roony Bardghji. Barça led 2–1 and were able to pretend everything was going according to plan for eight whole minutes. Jhon Solís then equalised from a set piece, reminding the Catalans that the youth-team excuse does not mark opponents inside the box.

Flick used 22 players, while Barcelona’s best performer was a striker who is not even old enough to legally buy a beer in Birmingham. A ceremonial penalty shootout followed the draw. Barça missed three attempts and lost it despite Áron Yaakobishvili making two saves. One pre-season game played, and they have already found a way to disappoint after the final whistle as well.

Birmingham City 2–2 FC Barcelona (Birmingham won the penalty shootout)
Goals: August Priske 31’, Hamza Abdelkarim 42’ (pen.), 60’, Jhon Solís 68’
Turning point: Barcelona took the lead through Abdelkarim’s second goal but held it for only eight minutes. Solís equalised from a set piece before Barça missed three penalties in the shootout.