UEFA Youth League: FC Barcelona thrashes AZ 5-1

Sensational First Half Display Seals Victory for Barcelona

Barcelona's youngsters put on a dazzling display in the first half to secure a comfortable 5-1 victory over AZ in the UEFA Youth League.

The Spanish giants took control of the match from the outset, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. Their dominance paid off in the 15th minute when Ansu Fati opened the scoring with a clinical finish. Barcelona continued to pour forward, and just seven minutes later, Pedri doubled their lead with a stunning long-range effort.

AZ briefly threatened a comeback when Myron Boadu pulled a goal back in the 25th minute. However, Barcelona restored their two-goal advantage just before half-time when Ilaix Moriba converted a penalty.

The second half was a more subdued affair, with Barcelona content to control the game and see out the victory. They added two more goals in the closing stages through substitute Konrad de la Fuente and Alejandro Balde to complete the rout.

The victory sees Barcelona top Group E with a maximum of nine points from three matches. AZ, meanwhile, remain in third place with three points.