Israeli Midfielder Oriane Goren Impresses in Barcelona Debut Despite Penalty Shootout Loss

Barcelona lost to Birmingham City in a penalty shootout on Friday during their first preseason match in England, following a 2-2 draw in regular time. Despite the defeat, Catalan media focused on the performances of La Masia academy players, particularly 17-year-old Israeli midfielder Oriane Goren, who made his senior debut. Goren entered the match as a substitute in the 63rd minute and witnessed Barcelona overturn an early deficit before ultimately falling 3-2 in penalties.

Goren completed 11 passes with 100% accuracy, including a key pass, and attempted a shot that was blocked by the defense. Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo praised him as "Crecido" (grown into the game), highlighting his role in midfield where he sought numerical superiority in attack and took responsibility in key moments. Sport also noted his initiative and freedom of movement, emphasizing his constant effort to influence the game.

Barcelona’s official website described Goren as a technically skilled and versatile midfielder, the second youngest player on the preseason tour after Ibrahima Tonkara. However, the standout player was 18-year-old Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim, who scored twice in his debut, including the first penalty in the shootout, and was lauded as a promising candidate to become Barcelona’s leading striker.

The match and Goren’s debut mark an important step in his development as he gains experience with the senior squad during the preseason tour in England.