Hamza Abdelkarim plays 45 minutes as Barcelona draw 3-3 with Aston Villa in UEFA Youth League

Hamza Abdelkarim played 45 minutes as Barcelona drew 3-3 with Aston Villa in the UEFA Youth League.

The Egyptian forward started the match but was substituted at half-time so he could join the first-team squad, who were preparing to face Aston Villa at Camp Nou later the same day.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick wanted the youngster to be available with the senior side.

Barcelona made a strong start, taking a two-goal lead inside the opening 23 minutes. Ibrahima Tounkara opened the scoring in the ninth minute before Jonathan Hernandez doubled the advantage in the 23rd.

Aston Villa reduced the deficit eight minutes before half-time when TJ Carroll scored. The goal was credited to the English youngster by the official UEFA website.

Rodrigo Fortes then brought Aston Villa level in first-half stoppage time, scoring in the 45th minute plus one.

The visitors restored their lead in the 81st minute through Marki Mady, but Barcelona secured a point when Lou Martinez equalised in the 90th minute.

Barcelona’s youth side are 17th in the overall standings with five points from four matches.

Aston Villa have four points and sit 24th.