Match: FC Barcelona vs. CE Europa
Competition: International Club Friendly
Date: July 25, 2026
Result: 3–1

Match Overview

FC Barcelona kicked off their preseason campaign with a comfortable 3–1 victory over local Catalan side CE Europa at the Estadi Johan Cruyff on July 25, 2026. The friendly allowed manager Hansi Flick to assess his squad's sharpness, with several first‑team regulars seeing minutes alongside younger talents.

First‑Half Control

Barcelona dominated possession from the first whistle, as expected. The opening goal came in the 12th minute when winger Raphinha cut inside from the right and unleashed a low drive that beat CE Europa goalkeeper Pau Torres at his near post. The lead was doubled just before half‑time: a flowing move involving Pedri and Gavi ended with Robert Lewandowski sliding in to tap home from six yards.

Second‑Half Adjustments

Flick made wholesale changes at the break, introducing Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, and young defender Héctor Fort. The young trio injected fresh energy, and Barcelona continued to control proceedings. The third goal arrived in the 67th minute when Lamine Yamal dribbled past two defenders and squared for substitute striker Vitor Roque, who finished with composure.

CE Europa pulled one back in the 82nd minute through a well‑worked set piece. A corner was flicked on at the near post, and midfielder Marc Buxó volleyed home from close range to give the visitors a consolation goal. It was the only blemish on an otherwise solid defensive display from Barcelona's backup backline.

Player Highlights

• Raphinha: Sharp and direct on the right wing, opened the scoring and looked lively throughout his 45‑minute stint.
• Lamine Yamal: The teenage sensation caused havoc after coming on, setting up Roque's goal with a dazzling run.
• Vitor Roque: The Brazilian striker took his goal well and linked up promisingly with the midfield.

Friendly vs. CE Europa: A Tradition

Facing CE Europa has become a regular preseason fixture for Barcelona in recent years, offering a local derby‑style test against a side that plays in the Spanish fourth tier. The match helps Barcelona build rhythm while giving Europa a high‑profile friendly to prepare for their own league season. For the Blaugrana, this was a positive first step ahead of tougher tests, including a tour of the United States and a clash with Real Madrid in the upcoming Gamper Trophy.