Barcelona defeats Al Ahly to win Joan Gamper Trophy

Barcelona secured the Joan Gamper Trophy for the 48th time by defeating Egyptian club Al Ahly 2-1 in a friendly match. The annual pre-season fixture, named after the club's founder, saw Barcelona's new signing Hamza Abdul Karim open the scoring in the 30th minute with a pass from Alejandro Balde. Abdul Karim, who joined Barcelona from Al Ahly in February on loan before his transfer was made permanent, chose not to celebrate his goal against his former club.

This goal marked Abdul Karim's fourth in Barcelona's pre-season friendlies, solidifying his position as the team's top scorer in the summer matches. Raphinha, captaining Barcelona, extended their lead in the 45th minute by converting a penalty kick. Al Ahly managed to reduce the deficit in the 52nd minute when Ahmed Mostafa, known as Zizo, scored after receiving a pass from Monsef Boukarr.

Barcelona had further opportunities in the second half, including a late penalty in the 91st minute by new signing Antony Gordon, which was saved by Al Ahly's goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy. The match concluded Barcelona's preparations for the new season, which begins with a league match against Elche next Sunday. Al Ahly will start their Egyptian Premier League campaign against El Sharqia Dokhan on Sunday.