The potential of football in Australia was in evidence as one of the game’s superpowers helped deliver a festive night in Sydney
Nevertheless, the match was marketed as an exhibition of footballing excellence and the fans came in their droves – a touch over 70,000 were in the stands in what was the biggest turnout at a sporting event in Sydney since the Covid-19 pandemic began.
“I have to congratulate them because they played so good, so good,” Xavi said afterwards. “I think it was the main goal that everybody enjoyed [it], especially the supporters. Tactically, very good. They played really well, defend really well, they create chances in transition and the counter-attack, we suffered a lot, especially in the second half. Technically, so good. It’s a good level today.”
The lead would not last long as a wounded Barcelona hit back, first through the other Adama Traoré – who coincidentally shares the name of the All-Stars goalscorer – and then 19-year old starlet Ansu Fati, who sealed victory for the Catalans. For others at Accor Stadium, the prospect of watching on from the stands was enough to make Wednesday evening a must-see event.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Barcelona victorious over best of the A-League in friendly international clashBarcelona claws back a win after the A-League All Stars team dominated most of the novelty clash in Sydney.
Read more »
Roma v Feyenoord: Europa Conference League final – live!Minute-by-minute report: Will Feyenoord prevent José Mourinho getting his hands on another European trophy? Join Barry Glendenning
Read more »
Premier League 2021-22 season review: our writers’ best and worstThe best players, most gripping games and finest signings – plus the biggest flops and greatest gripes
Read more »
Roma end 60-year wait as Zaniolo seals Europa Conference League crownRoma won their first major European title in more than 60 years as Nicolò Zaniolo’s first-half goal earned the Italian club a 1-0 victory over Feyenoord in the Europa Conference League final in Albania on Wednesday
Read more »
Revealed: government did encourage Premier League to approve Newcastle takeoverBoris Johnson’s government worked for months to encourage the Premier League to approve the controversial Saudi Arabia-backed takeover of Newcastle
Read more »
Shane Flanagan: I could 'without a doubt' get Kyle firing at the Dogs - The Fox League Podcast - Omny.fmThis week Eamonn and Hoops are joined by premiership-winning NRL coach Shane Flanagan. The former Sharks coach addresses the chatter linking him to the vacant Bulldogs job and declares his interest in the gig which would see him coach his son Kyle. The boys also discuss the Storm, Panthers, Cowboys and plenty more heading into Round 12.
Read more »