Vissel Kobe vs FC Barcelona: Preseason Friendly Highlights and Key Takeaways

FC Barcelona kicked off their 2025/26 preseason campaign with a high-intensity friendly against Vissel Kobe in Japan, marking the start of their Asia tour. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Eric García scoring Barça’s lone goal before Vissel Kobe equalized just before halftime.

Match Overview

Eric’s header vs Vissel Kobe 💥 pic.twitter.com/JE1fOb1dkX

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 27, 2025

First Half: Barça’s Strong Start and Vissel Kobe’s Response

Barcelona fielded a near-full-strength lineup, showcasing new signings like goalkeeper Joan García (formerly of Espanyol) and integrating key players such as Lamine Yamal, now wearing the iconic number 10 shirt.

• Eric García’s Opener (34’) – A scrappy corner led to García poking the ball home after a goalmouth scramble, giving Barça the lead.

• Vissel Kobe’s Equalizer (45’) – Japanese star Taisei Maeda capitalized on a defensive lapse, firing past Joan García after an initial save.

Second Half: Rotations and Rashford’s Debut

Hans-Dieter Flick made multiple changes, introducing Marcus Rashford (on loan from Manchester United) and other substitutes. While chances were limited, Rashford’s pace and link-up play provided glimpses of his potential impact.

Key Takeaways

🔷 Matç başa çatdı! Təbriklər! vissel kobe vs fc barcelona 👏

🔶 Vissel Kobe 1-3 Barça. vissel kobe vs fc barcelona

⚽🔵🔴 33′ Eric Garcia
⚽⚪🔴 44′ Taisei Miyashiro
⚽🔵🔴 77′ Roony Bardghji (as: Robert Lewandowski)
⚽🔵🔴 87′ Dro Fernandez. #FCBAZFAN pic.twitter.com/NMyz7qIXlI

— FC Barcelona Azerbaijan (@fcbazfan2010) July 27, 2025

1. Preseason Intensity Against a Mid-Season Opponent

Unlike typical European preseason opponents, vissel kobe vs fc barcelona (currently leading Japan’s J1 League) provided a competitive test. Their sharpness contrasted with Barça’s early-season rust, making the match a valuable fitness exercise.

2. Lamine Yamal’s New Role as Number 10

The 18-year-old Lamine Yamal embraced his new jersey with confidence, displaying flashes of brilliance on the right wing. His creativity and dribbling remained central to Barça’s attack.

3. Defensive Adjustments Needed

Barça’s high defensive line was occasionally exposed, leading to Vissel Kobe’s equalizer. Joan García impressed with key saves, but the backline must tighten up before La Liga begins.

4. Rashford’s Promising Cameo

Rashford’s introduction offered a glimpse of his versatility across the frontline. His movement and directness could provide crucial depth alongside Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

Looking Ahead

Barcelona’s Asia tour continues with fixtures in South Korea, followed by the Joan Gamper Trophy before their La Liga opener against Mallorca on August 16.

Final Thoughts

While the result was secondary, the match highlighted Flick’s tactical demands and the squad’s fitness progress. With new signings bedding in and young stars like Yamal thriving, Barça fans have reasons for optimism ahead of the new season.