Abdelkarim Shines Against Former Club as Barcelona Clinch Joan Gamper Trophy

FC Barcelona celebrated their homecoming to the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou by capturing the 61st Joan Gamper Trophy with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

In front of 54,224 fans, the match served as the grand unveiling for Hansi Flick’s 2026/27 squad, which features landmark summer signing and Ballon d'Or winner Rodri. However, it was another new arrival, 17-year-old Egyptian prodigy Hamza Abdelkarim, who stole the headlines against his former employers.

Abdelkarim broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, showing incredible composure to meet Alejandro Balde’s low cross and slot home his first Camp Nou goal, respectfully refusing to celebrate. Raphinha doubled the advantage just before halftime, confidently converting a 45th-minute penalty after being brought down in the box.

Flick rotated his squad heavily in the second half, allowing Al Ahly to fight back. The visitors pulled one back in the 51st minute through Zizo, who rounded keeper Joan García after a swift counter-attack. Anthony Gordon missed a late penalty to extend the lead, but Barcelona held on safely to secure the silverware ahead of their La Liga opener against Elche.