The reigning champions are off to a winning start. FC Barcelona Juvenil A opened their UEFA Youth League campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Newcastle United U19 at Whitley Park.
Óscar Gistau was the star of the night, scoring twice and providing an assist as Pol Planas’ team took a commanding 0-3 lead before surviving a late comeback scare from the English side.
Bright First Half: Barça Fly Out With 3 Goals
The opening minutes were cautious, with both teams defending well and avoiding risks.
Xavi Espart Breaks the Deadlock
In the 23rd minute, Xavi Espart opened the scoring after a clever assist from Gistau. Arriving late into the box, Espart slid to finish past Mair and make it 0-1.
Gistau Strikes Twice Before the Break
Right before halftime, Gistau took over the match:
- 44’ Goal — A powerful shot into the top corner for 0-2.
- 45+2’ Goal — Punished a goalkeeper error with a stunning 30-meter strike into the empty net.
At halftime, Barcelona were cruising 0-3 and looked in full control.
Second Half: Newcastle Fight Back
The game changed after the break as Newcastle pushed higher.
Shahar Pulls One Back
In the 50th minute, a foul by Andrés Cuenca gave Newcastle a free-kick on the edge of the box.
Shahar curled it beautifully past Eder Aller after a slight deflection from Fitzgerald.
Wooster Sparks Tense Finale
Barça kept their shape well until the 81st minute when Wooster made it 2-3 from close range after a strong run down the left from Charlton.
The goal lifted Newcastle, who chased an equalizer until the final whistle.
Oriol Pallàs missed two chances on the counter, and Neave went closest for the hosts with a header that flew just wide in stoppage time.
Full-Time: A Winning Start Despite Late Drama
Despite the late nerves, Barça deserved their win and claimed three crucial points to begin their Youth League title defense.
Gistau was named MVP with two goals and an assist, while Espart and Pedro Villar also impressed with their work rate and composure.
Next up, Barcelona Juvenil A will face Paris Saint-Germain U19 in Matchday 2 — another key step in their quest to defend the European crown.
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