Boos Behind the Goal: Juan Garcia Faces Espanyol Fans in Spain vs Egypt Friendly

What happened

Spain's goalkeeper Juan Garcia, who plays for Barcelona and the national team, endured a sharp reception from Espanyol supporters in the stands at RCDE Stadium during a Spain versus Egypt friendly on Tuesday evening.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Spain’s supporters backed their team, but Garcia stood out as an exception, perceived from the warm-ups and the loudspeaker introduction, which could not be drowned out by cheers for others.

Jeers from those near the goal area accompanied every touch during the warm-up, and the chorus grew louder when his name was announced.

Fans also jeered when Garcia came on as a substitute for David Raya in the 60th minute, marking the Barcelona keeper’s first international appearance.

Coach Luis de la Fuente had previously left Garcia out of the Spain squad for the Serbia friendly during this international window.

Mundo Deportivo reports that de la Fuente recalled Garcia for the Pharaohs game after Martin Zubimendi’s injury and withdrawal.

Garcia’s relationship with Espanyol fans has never been warm since his move to Barcelona last summer, and he has already faced hostility this season at Espanyol’s home ground.

Another sour note from the match was the conduct of some Spanish fans who whistled during the Egyptian national anthem, showing little respect for the Egyptian side.

Read also:

Yamal’s lone exception in Spain’s lineup against Egypt—does De La Fuente dare to test Barcelona?

Punchline: In football, if you can’t beat the other team, at least you can beat the rhythm of their boos.

Punchline 2: And if a keeper can survive a stadium chorus, imagine what he could do with a clean sheet and a cup of tea.