UEFA Youth League: Barcelona secure victory over Manchester City

Blaugrana triumph in thrilling semi-final encounter

Barca advance to final after hard-fought battle

FC Barcelona's Under-19 team have booked their place in the final of the UEFA Youth League after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Friday. The Spanish giants produced a dominant display to secure the win and will now face Benfica in the final on Monday.

Barca took control of the game from the outset and created several chances in the opening stages. They finally broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Alejandro Balde latched onto a loose ball in the City area and fired home. The Blaugrana continued to press for a second goal and were rewarded just before the hour mark when Angel Alarcon converted a penalty.

City pushed for a way back into the game but could not find a way through the Barca defence. The Spanish side held on to their lead to secure a memorable victory and a place in the final.

Barca have now won the UEFA Youth League twice, in 2014 and 2018, and will be looking to add a third title to their collection when they face Benfica on Monday.