García a spectator and Hamza demands his due: "Sport" rates Barcelona's players against Al-Ahly

The Catalan newspaper praised the performance of the Egyptian striker

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick fielded a strong starting line-up in the 61st edition of the Joan Gamper Trophy against Egypt's Al-Ahly on Wednesday, just days before the Blaugrana kick off their La Liga campaign.

Catalan newspaper "Sport" highlighted Flick's continued reliance on Xavi Espart as a key player, while Hamza Abdelkarim started against his former club Al-Ahly.

"It is also striking that Barcelona started with three left-footed players in their attacking line," the newspaper added.

Barcelona beat Al-Ahly 2-1, and the Catalan side left good impressions despite the narrow margin, according to "Sport".

The newspaper's ratings of Barça's starting players against the Red Giants were as follows:

Joan García (6) spectator: Barcelona's goalkeeper was barely tested throughout the first half, needing only to make one easy save.

Eric García (6) committed: The versatile player started at full-back. He was not brilliant, but he carried out his duties well as usual.

Jules Koundé (7) calm: The French defender returned to his original position as a centre-back. He looked comfortable and very calm in a role where he shone during his time at Sevilla. He was never properly tested, yet he left positive impressions.

Gerard Martín (6) corrected: He continued to occupy the left centre-back position. Attentive and quick, he made no mistakes and gave his side a degree of security.

Alejandro Balde (7) provider: The left-back pushed forward in attack repeatedly, benefiting from Raphinha's movements. His persistence was rewarded with a superb pass to Hamza Abdelkarim, from which the opening goal came.

Marc Bernal (7) eager: The midfielder looked in good shape, and showed his desire to compete for a starting place despite the signing of Rodri. He was always a help to his teammates thanks to his generosity and tactical intelligence, and he also stood out carrying the ball forward and passing it.

Xavi Espart (8) outstanding: He started in midfield, playing a role close to that of Pedri, with a tendency to drift left. He plays at a speed greater than the others, intense, aggressive and accurate in his passing. He recovered plenty of balls, and almost scored a goal that would have rewarded him for his excellent match.

Fermín López (7) hyperactive: The attacking midfielder had a clear chance after rounding the goalkeeper, and he also created an excellent chance for Raphinha. He ranked among the standout players, alongside his usual defensive contributions.

Lamine Yamal (6) relaxed: He still needs time to regain his best level. He made some passing errors that he does not usually make, but he left flashes of his exceptional talent. He looked as though he was enjoying his football, despite his need to find match rhythm, and his level improved gradually as the game went on.

Hamza Abdelkarim (7) proving his worth: The Egyptian striker started against his former club Al-Ahly. He had a clear chance, but his eagerness to score led him to rush and stray offside. He came back to score Barcelona's first goal after a distinctive attacking move and a superb strike with his left foot, continuing to boost his chances with the first team.

Raphinha (8) perfect: The Brazilian winger returned to the left-wing position, one of his best. He produced his usual bursts and stood out with his vertical play, and came close to scoring with a powerful shot from outside the box. He may not always be accurate, but his dedication was complete, and it showed clearly in the 27th minute when he tracked back strongly to defend. He won a penalty and converted it himself.