Barcelona kicked off their tour of Japan with a commanding performance, defeating Vissel Kobe 3-1 at the Noevir Stadium. While the team secured a convincing win, all eyes were on the new signings, and Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona debut did not disappoint, as he immediately energized the team’s attack.
New Signings Make an Instant Impact
Head coach Hansi Flick gave fans an exciting glimpse into the future by starting three new Barcelona players. Goalkeeper Joan Garcia started the match and quickly made his presence felt with a crucial early save. Although Vissel Kobe later scored, Garcia showed promising reflexes.
However, the second half truly electrified the crowd. Marcus Rashford and Ronny Bardghji entered the pitch and completely changed the game’s tempo. The Rashford Barcelona debut was a showcase of creativity and pace. In the 77th minute, Rashford initiated a brilliant attacking sequence that led to a Ronny Bardghji goal, marking a dream start for both players in a Barcelona shirt. This combination play demonstrated a chemistry that could prove vital in the upcoming season.
A Full Rundown of the Match
Barcelona asserted control early in the game. Veteran defender Eric Garcia opened the scoring, giving his team a deserved lead. Despite Barcelona’s dominance, Vissel Kobe found a way back. Their striker, Taisei Miyashiro, capitalized on a rebound to level the score, ensuring the first half remained competitive.
Following the impactful substitutions at halftime, Barcelona regained the lead through Bardghji’s clinical finish. The final Barcelona vs Vissel Kobe result was sealed when Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez Sarmiento found the back of the net, solidifying the 3-1 victory for the Catalan giants.
A Promising Start for a New Era
This victory provides more than just a positive result in the Barcelona pre-season 2025 campaign. It signals a successful integration of new talent and highlights the squad’s impressive depth. Rashford’s dynamic performance, in particular, suggests he will be a key figure in Barcelona’s attack. As the team builds momentum, this win in Kobe serves as a strong foundation for the challenges that lie ahead.