AC Milan 0-1 Barcelona: Player Ratings

Barcelona wrapped up their pre-season tour of the United States of America with a 1-0 victory in Las Vegas, courtesy of a stunning goal from Ansu Fati in the second half.

The La Liga champions were the better of the two teams for large parts of the match at the Allegiant Stadium.

They created pressure in the first half through Raphinha and Ez Abde, but it was Fati who found the opener, via a scintillating strike from the edge of the box after some brilliant work by fellow substitute Alejandro Balde.

With the win, Barça bring an end to their US tour with two victories and a defeat in three matches. Xavi’s men will be in action next week in the Joan Gamper Trophy match against Tottenham before the La Liga season starts.

Here’s how the Barcelona players fared on the night against Stefano Pioli’s men in Vegas.

Inaki Pena: 7/10

Starting ahead of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the academy product put up a solid display in goal, making three saves in total while his distribution from the back was sharp and accurate as well.

Ronald Araujo: 6.5/10

Slotted in on the right side of the defence and had to deal with the threat of the dangerous Rafael Leao, which he did quite well, although there were one or two nervy moments. The Uruguayan won three of the six ground duels he contested and even made a key pass in his 85 minutes on the pitch.

Jules Kounde: 7/10

Largely solid from the Frenchman who looks much more at home at centre-back than at right-back. Came close to scoring in the first half when he hit the woodwork. Apart from one moment when Leao had him beat, Kounde looked assured in defence and largely calm in possession.

Eric Garcia: 7/10

A rare start for Eric Garcia and the Spaniard had a good showing against Milan, with his distribution being a highlight. Misplaced just one of his 90 attempted passes on the night and defended well when called upon.

Marcos Alonso: 6/10

Lack of pace leaves him exposed defensively and one such moment led to a yellow card. Made some good forward forays to support Abde in the first period before coming off.

Pedri: 7/10

Not as influential and impactful as he can be, but still managed to keep things ticking along nicely during the 45 minutes he was on the pitch and showcased his quality on the ball, helping Barça retain control.

Oriol Romeu: 7/10

Another solid display from the new signing, building on his performance against Real Madrid. There had been some concerns over Romeu’s ability to distribute and help dictate the flow from the pivot position but seems to be doing it quite well.

Fermin Lopez: 6/10

Rewarded with a start for his starring cameo against Real Madrid, the young Andalusian displayed good energy on the field and made some positive movements but did not have much of an impact overall.

Raphinha: 7/10

Now the owner of the right-wing spot in the starting XI with Ousmane Dembele’s imminent departure, Raphinha was lively on the pitch, always looking to take on defenders and create chances. Made two key passes and three accurate crosses and even had a shot on target.

Ferran Torres: 6/10

No third goal in three games for Ferran, as he started ahead of Robert Lewandowski on the night. Apart from a tame shot that was saved, he did not conjure up much threat either, but his work rate and closing down stood out in the 45 minutes he played.

Ez Abde: 6.5/10

Looked dangerous with his dribbling and pace, but lacked the end product to really hurt AC Milan on the night. Still a largely positive outing for the youngster who can be a handful for opponents with a bit more polishing.

SUBSTITUTES

Sergi Roberto: 6/10

Came on at half-time and slotted into the midfield, where he put in a solid shift. Nothing standout from the Barça captain, but offered work rate and efficiency while on the ball.

Ansu Fati: 8.5/10

The star of the show for Barcelona, scoring the only goal of the game, and what a goal it was, as he cut in from the left flank before finding the top corner with a screamer of an effort. Continued to pose problems to Milan who could not get close to him. Will do his confidence a world of good.

Robert Lewandowski: 6/10

On for Ferran at half-time, Lewandowski was not involved much and did not really look like he would score on the night. But did show some sharp movement and link-up play at times.

Frenkie de Jong: 7/10

Barcelona look much better with the Dutchman on the pitch. Played with freedom knowing that Romeu was there to sweep things up behind and made some good line-breaking passes. Finished the game as a centre-back.

Alejandro Balde: 8/10

Once again stood out for Barcelona with his pace and driving runs forward while not slacking in his defensive duties either. Assisted the only goal of the game and created another chance before making way for Alex Valle in the 85th minute.

Sergino Dest: 5/10

On for Kounde in the 67th minute, the USMNT star endured a forgetful outing as he lost possession leading to a chance for Milan to equalise, and did nothing much of note.

Lamine Yamal: 6.5/10

On for Raphinha, the 16-year-old prodigy showed why there is so much hype surrounding him with a sharp cameo during which he glided past defenders and even had an effort come close. Certainly, one to keep an eye out for in the coming season.

Marc Casado: N/A

Replaced Romeu for the last ten minutes, showed good intent.

Alex Valle: N/A

Made his unofficial first-team debut when he replaced Balde in the 85th minute. Did not do much of note in the five minutes or so he was on the field.

Mikayil Faye: N/A

Another debutant for Barcelona, came on for Garcia with five minutes left.

Aleix Garrido: N/A

On for Araujo in the last five minutes.