Barcelona began their 2026 preseason campaign with an entertaining 2-2 draw against Birmingham City at St. Andrew’s, as 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim stole the spotlight with a brilliant two-goal performance. Hansi Flick handed opportunities to several La Masia prospects and first-team squad players, with 22 Barcelona players seeing action throughout the friendly.

Hamza Abdelkarim Announces Himself

Birmingham opened the scoring through August Priske against the run of play, but Barcelona responded before halftime when Abdelkarim calmly converted a penalty after winning the spot-kick himself. The teenage striker doubled his tally early in the second half by reacting quickest to finish a rebound after Roony Bardghji’s long-range effort was saved.

Jude Bellingham Spotted

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham was among the notable faces in attendance at St. Andrew’s, where he was spotted wearing a Birmingham City shirt and supporting his boyhood club. Bellingham began his professional football career at Birmingham City before earning a move to Borussia Dortmund and later Real Madrid, making his appearance a special moment for the home supporters.

La Masia Talent Impresses

Several young Barcelona players produced encouraging displays despite the draw. Xavi Espart controlled the right flank with confident passing and ball progression, while Ebrima Tunkara showcased his strength and composure under pressure. After the break, Bardghji added creativity in attack, and youngsters Brian Fariñas, Jordi Pesquer, and Álex González also caught the eye with energetic performances.

Birmingham Fight Back Late

Jhon Solís brought Birmingham level midway through the second half from a set-piece, and the hosts pushed hard for a winner. Barcelona’s youthful lineup responded well, creating several late opportunities, but the Birmingham goalkeeper denied the visitors with a series of impressive saves to ensure the match ended 2-2.

Although Birmingham won the ceremonial post-match penalty shootout, the result carried little significance. The evening was largely viewed as a successful first outing for Hansi Flick’s side.