Raphinha’s stoppage-time spot-kick gives Barcelona narrow Nottingham Forest victory

Barcelona opened their triangular tournament in Udine with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, secured by Raphinha’s stoppage-time penalty on Saturday.

The Brazilian forward’s late conversion was the only goal of a match in which Barcelona had to withstand periods of pressure before gradually improving during the opening 45 minutes. Nottingham Forest began as the stronger side, but Barcelona grew into the contest and eventually snatched victory despite an unconvincing overall performance.

The result gives Hans Flick’s side a winning start to the tournament, although the team remains some way from full readiness at this stage of pre-season. Barcelona still have considerable work to do before they reach their best level, with the German manager continuing to assess a squad combining established first-team players with younger members of the club’s academy.

One of the main talking points was the continued use of Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim as Barcelona’s central forward. The youngster was again selected to lead the line after also starting in the previous matches against Europa and Birmingham.

Abdelkarim’s involvement came during a demanding period for the young player, as Barcelona looked to find greater rhythm and attacking consistency against Nottingham Forest. Although the side struggled at times, it improved as the first half progressed and retained enough control to remain in the game before securing the decisive moment late on.

The match also marked the first appearance of the pre-season campaign for Fermin Lopez and Raphinha. Raphinha ultimately made the most significant contribution, remaining composed from the penalty spot in added time to settle the contest.

Karim Adeyemi retained his place in the starting line-up, while Barcelona again gave prominent roles to several academy players. Espart and Bisker, both aged 17, operated as the two full-backs, underlining the youthful nature of Flick’s selection.

Farinas was deployed in midfield as Barcelona attempted to balance experience and emerging talent. The combination produced an uneven display, with Nottingham Forest enjoying the better of the early exchanges, but Barcelona’s performance developed over the course of the half.

Flick’s team will take the victory, but the narrow margin and the difficulties experienced during the match also highlighted the amount of preparation still required. Barcelona’s squad is continuing to build fitness and cohesion, while the club’s younger players are being given opportunities alongside members of the first team.

In the end, Raphinha’s penalty separated the sides. It provided Barcelona with a winning beginning in Udine and spared them from a draw in a match where Nottingham Forest had threatened to make their early pressure count.