AS Monaco triumphed in style against FC Barcelona, securing a 3-0 victory to win the 59th edition of the Joan Gamper Trophy. After a challenging first half, Monaco turned the tide in the second, claiming a prestigious win at the Olympic Stadium Lluís Companys de Montjuïc, under the gaze of club President Dmitry Rybolovlev and Barça President Joan Laporta.
Monaco, playing in a 4-4-2 formation, started the match cautiously as Barcelona applied early pressure. The Catalans had several chances, with Pablo Torre missing an early opportunity and Iñigo Martínez threatening from a corner. However, Monaco’s defense held firm, with Breel Embolo coming close to breaking the deadlock just before halftime.
The second half saw a transformed Monaco side. The breakthrough came in the 50th minute when Lamine Camara capitalized on a poor Barcelona pass at the edge of the box. The young midfielder pounced on the loose ball and fired it into the net, marking his first goal for AS Monaco and giving his team a 1-0 lead.
Monaco quickly doubled their advantage just seven minutes later. Takumi Minamino delivered a precise pass to Breel Embolo, who expertly chipped the ball over Barça goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, making it 2-0. The goal showcased Embolo’s composure and finishing ability, leaving the home side stunned.
Barcelona tried to respond, with young talent Lamine Yamal making an impact after coming on. Despite their efforts, Monaco remained in control, and in the 74th minute, they sealed the victory. A deflected cross from Caio Henrique found Christian Mawissa, who controlled the ball on his left foot and slotted it home to make it 3-0. The goal was particularly special for Mawissa, a recent signing who had only arrived in Monaco days earlier.
Monaco’s dominant performance earned them the Joan Gamper Trophy, with the victory celebrated by the players and staff. Captain Denis Zakaria received the trophy from President Rybolovlev, who was joined by Vice-Presidents Ekaterina Sartori Rybolovleva and Juan Sartori in presenting the prestigious award. This victory not only adds another trophy to Monaco’s collection but also highlights the team’s potential for the upcoming season.
