Barça Thrashes Como in Preseason Finale
It may only have been a preseason match, but Barcelona’s performance against Como sent a message loud and clear: they’re ready, and they’re scary. In their final test before LaLiga kicks off, Hansi Flick’s team cruised to a crushing 5–0 victory in the Trofeu Joan Gamper, displaying intensity, fitness, and a relentless pressing game that left their opponents with no escape.
The goals told one story — Fermín López and Lamine Yamal each bagged a brace, while Raphinha added another — but the way the win was built was even more impressive. From the first whistle, the Blaugrana played with an energy more typical of a Champions League night than a summer friendly. Their press suffocated Como, forcing turnovers and pushing the Italians back into their own half. The pace and stamina on display were the result of meticulous preparation, and it already feels as though Barça’s fitness is ahead of many rivals.
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Flick took the opportunity to start both new signings, goalkeeper Joan García and forward Marcus Rashford, even though neither is yet officially registered for LaLiga. The coach also experimented with Eric García at right-back, while leaving Gavi and Koundé on the bench initially. And it didn’t take long for the plan to pay off. Fermín López, playing with the hunger of someone determined to claim a starting spot, pressed high, won the ball in dangerous areas, and scored twice in the opening 34 minutes — one a low, precise strike, the other a superb curling effort into the top corner.
Then came the magic of Lamine Yamal. Only 18, but already unplayable at times, he dazzled with dribbles, shrugging off multiple defenders. From one such move, Raphinha pounced to make it 3–0, and moments later Lamine himself tapped in the fourth before halftime. Rashford, though not at his sharpest in link-up play, had already made his mark with a surging run to assist Raphinha.
The second half began much as the first had ended — with Barça in control. Ferran Torres replaced Rashford and within minutes set up Lamine for his second goal of the night, sealing the 5–0. Como tried to push forward, particularly after introducing Jesús Rodríguez, but Joan García in goal stood firm, earning applause from the home fans.
Flick eventually rotated heavily, bringing on names like Gavi, Christensen, and Casadó — a reminder of the squad’s depth. Competition for midfield places will be fierce, especially once injured players return. But if this match was any indication, Barça enter the new season not only full of talent, but also playing with a collective sharpness and aggression that could make them one of Europe’s most intimidating sides.
Five goals, a clean sheet, and a crowd left buzzing — preseason or not, this Barça looks ready to roar.
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