Barcelona end the US tour with a 2-0 win over New York Red Bulls

Barcelona completed their trip to the United States with a 2-0 victory against the New York Red Bulls.

The LaLiga heavyweights, who had a rough season last year, have been active in the transfer market this summer, bringing in five new players, including Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski.

For the second match in three days, the Polish striker was named to the starting lineup and was actively engaged in the early action.

After 17 minutes, Jordi Alba’s precise cross reached Lewandowski, but the striker could only head the ball over the bar unnoticed.

He then got the ball from 30 yards out and beat several players before shooting far over the bar.

Five minutes before the interval, Barcelona’s dominance was rewarded when Ousmane Dembele found Raphinha on the outskirts of the box, and the Brazilian returned the favor with a reverse ball for Dembele to complete the play with a thunderous shot past a helpless Carlos Coronel.

During the interval, Xavi made many substitutions, including Gerard Pique, Pedri, Franck Kessie, Ansu Fati, and Sergio Roberto.

In the second half, Fati and Lewandowski missed many opportunities before New York Red Bulls’ Daniel Edelman was awarded a straight red for a reckless tackle on Pablo Torre.

In the 87th minute, Barcelona extended their advantage and won. Miralem Pjanic’s long pass caused a mix-up between defender Dylan Nealis and goalkeeper Ryan Meara, allowing Memphis Depay to slide the ball into an empty net.

Manager Xavi was pleased with his team’s performance at the Red Bull Arena. ‘It didn’t feel like a friendly game; the intensity, pace, and emotion they played with,’ he added.

‘It was a great test for us.’ We’re in a terrific place right now, with a lot of positive vibes from our tour in the United States, so it’s a nice start for us ahead of the upcoming tournaments.’

Barcelona will play one more pre-season friendly next weekend against Mexican side Pumas Unam before beginning their LaLiga season on August 13 at home against Rayo Vallecano.