Despite taking the lead twice, the Blaugranes succumbed to a 3-2 defeat against Club América in Dallas. The Mexicans rallied from behind twice, securing a late victory with a header from Henry Martín at the damp Cotton Bowl Stadium in Texas.
Barça initiated the game with a dominant display, and an electrifying Lamine Yamal scored within six minutes. The teenager manoeuvred through the Mexican defense and expertly steered the ball home, granting Barça an early lead.
However, their lead lasted only six minutes as Quiñones equalised with a close-range back heel, making it 1-1. Barça fought back to regain the lead just before halftime. Héctor Fort made a forceful run down the right, delivering a cross met by Marc Guiu at the near post, securing a 2-1 lead shortly before the half-hour mark.
Xavi’s team maintained their lead at halftime, courtesy of an outstanding save by goalkeeper Astralaga. He denied Leo Suarez from equalising when the América striker had a clear shot at goal.
In the second half, Ferran Torres substituted for João Félix, among other changes, and immediately tested América’s goalkeeper, Jiménez. América equalised again when Quiñones secured his second goal of the game, displaying strength to evade a challenge and score past Astralaga from inside the box at the 50-minute mark.
Although the Blaugranes had near misses to regain the lead through Unai and Oriol Romeu, it was Club América who secured the winner. Henry Martín headed the ball past goalkeeper Kochen, who replaced Astralaga in the second half.
Following their quick visit to the USA, Barcelona will return home to enjoy their Christmas break before gearing up for their next challenge: an away trip to Las Palmas in La Liga in the New Year.
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