Barcelona Beats Manchester City 2-2 (4-1) on PK’s at DIRECTV / FC Series Orlando Match
Orlando, Florida – In a highly anticipated clash of European titans, Manchester City and FC Barcelona played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Camping World Stadium on Tuesday, July 30. The match, part of the FC Series, captivated a sold-out crowd of 63,237 with end-to-end action and a penalty shootout that ultimately decided the victor in favor of Barcelona.
Both sides fielded a mix of experienced stars and promising youngsters, providing fans with a glimpse into the future while showcasing the talents of their established players.
The match was a fast-paced affair from the outset, with both teams creating numerous chances. Barcelona took the lead through Pau Victor, but City responded quickly with an equalizer from Nico O’Reilly.
Just before halftime, Barcelona regained the advantage with a goal from Pablo Torre. However, Manchester City showed their resilience, drawing level through a superb finish from Jack Grealish in the second half.
With neither side able to find a winner in normal time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout, where Barcelona emerged victorious with a 4-1 scoreline.
Beyond the result, the match showcased the immense talent and tactical acumen of both teams. Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, was particularly impressed by the performance of Jack Grealish, highlighting his aggressiveness and impact on the game.
The match served as valuable preparation for both clubs as they build towards the upcoming season. It also provided a memorable experience for fans in Orlando, showcasing the global appeal of football and the excitement generated by high-profile clashes.
As the two teams depart from Florida, they will undoubtedly reflect on a hard-fought encounter that served as a fitting prelude to what promises to be another thrilling campaign.
The next stop of the DIRECTV Soccer Champions Tour will feature Real Madrid and AC Milan on Wednesday, July 31 at a nearly sold out Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. The matchup will be the third stop of a six-city summer tour also featuring Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona on Aug 3 at MetLife Stadium, FC Barcelona vs AC Milan on Aug 6 at M&T Bank Stadium, and Real Madrid vs Chelsea FC on Aug 6 at Bank of America Stadium.
