sportnews full logo

Barcelona vs. Al Ahly: Match Preview, Predictions, and Expected Lineups

For the first time in its history, the Joan Gamper Trophy will host an African team as Al Ahly from Egypt prepare to challenge Barcelona. This friendly, marking the 61st edition of the tournament, will take place on Wednesday.

Since 1966, the Joan Gamper Trophy has invited top clubs worldwide to test themselves against Barça in a one-off match. Historically, most challengers have been overcome, but Al Ahly hopes to be the first to change that narrative.

Barcelona's Preseason Journey

The Catalan club wrapped up their preseason with several matches across Europe ahead of their La Liga title defense, which starts Sunday at Elche. Their warm-up included a closed-door victory over CE Europa, a draw against Birmingham City, and participation in a triangular tournament in Italy facing Nottingham Forest and Udinese. Their last outing saw them thrash Basel 5–2 in Switzerland.

With many players returning late from World Cup duties, manager Hansi Flick has had a longer preparation window. The recent win showcased attacking talents like Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsí, Jules Koundé, and newcomer Anthony Gordon.

Predicted Score and Outcome

Expect Barcelona to dominate as they seek their 48th Joan Gamper Trophy. Their record stands at 47 wins out of 60 matches in this competition, including a strong run of 12 victories in the last 13 editions. Last summer they crushed Como 5–0, so a sizeable win against Al Ahly is likely.

Prediction: Barcelona 4–1 Al Ahly

Expected Lineups

Manager Flick might boost his starting lineup by including Koundé and Yamal, who were substitutes previously. They may not play the entire match, as the coach will manage minutes carefully before the season opener. Other key players like Gordon could debut at Camp Nou, while Raphinha might lead the attack due to departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

Injuries sideline Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji, while Pedri’s availability remains doubtful after missing the Basel game.

  • Formation: 4-2-3-1
  • Goalkeeper: García
  • Defenders: Koundé, Christensen, Martín, Balde
  • Midfielders: Bernal, Espart
  • Attacking Midfielders: Yamal, López, Gordon
  • Forward: Raphinha

Coach Hussein Ammouta plans to field a strong squad featuring Egyptian World Cup participants like Emam Ashour, Marwan Ateya, and Yasser Ibrahim. New signing Monsef Bakrar from Dinamo Zagreb should see action, with Akram Tawfik and Soufiane Benjdida also pushing for spots.

Former striker Hamza Abdelkarim, now part of Barcelona, has impressed during preseason, netting three goals against Birmingham and Basel.

  • Formation: 4-3-3
  • Goalkeeper: El Shenawy
  • Defenders: Hany, Ibrahim, Marei, Fouad
  • Midfielders: Kouka, Ashour, Ateya
  • Forwards: Zizo, El Shahat, Bakrar

Match Details

  • Location: Barcelona, Spain
  • Stadium: Camp Nou
  • Date: Wednesday, August 19
  • Kick-off Time: 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT / 7 p.m. BST

Broadcast Information

  • Worldwide: Available on Barça Play and FC Barcelona's YouTube channel

For a complete list of broadcasters airing the match globally, fans should consult official sources.

Related Articles