NYON, Switzerland (AP) — Barcelona U19A team made history on Monday by defeating Trabzonspor 4-1 in the UEFA Youth League final, claiming the prestigious title for the third time. This victory wraps up a successful season, as they have also clinched the domestic league and cup for a treble.
Star player Diarra scored twice, and goals from Cuenca and Hugo Alba helped seal the win under the starry skies of Nyon. Club officials, including Joan Soler, the youth football director, and head of youth development, José Ramón Alexanko, presented the medals to the champions. Bojan Krkić, the football coordinator, celebrated proudly with the team.
Despite Trabzonspor’s vocal supporters creating an electrifying atmosphere, Barcelona took control from early on. Diarra, wearing the iconic No. 10 jersey, opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a precise shot resulting from a coordinated team move. Cuenca doubled the lead in the 19th minute by capitalizing on a rebound following a corner kick.
A potential third goal was ruled offside by VAR later in the first half, but Barcelona’s dominance remained evident. Trabzonspor appeared revitalized after halftime, yet Diarra quickly silenced their momentum by assisting Hugo Alba for the third goal just 12 minutes into the half.
Diarra then completed his brace in the 68th minute, sealing the fate of a Trabzonspor team that had been unbeaten in Europe this season. The Turkish squad managed a late consolation goal in the 88th minute from Bican Tibukoglu, but the match had already tilted in Barcelona’s favor.
After the final whistle, the Barcelona players celebrated their remarkable triumph, adding the UEFA Youth League trophy to their accolades. Joan Soler remarked, “Happiness demands hard work, and our youngsters showed this in every aspect of the game. The future looks bright for Barça, thanks to La Masia.”
This victory firmly establishes Barcelona’s junior squad among the elite in youth football and exemplifies their commitment to nurturing talent through their famed academy.
