Record equalled regarding FC Barcelona representation in a World Cup final. Some 16 years after South Africa in 2010, eight blaugrana players have reached the final after Spain defeated a France side featuring Jules Kounde 0-2.

The figure matches the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, when Víctor Valdés, Gerard Piqué, Carles Puyol, Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Pedro and Villa were part of the Spain squad that would be crowned champions in Johannesburg.

The blaugranes contributed decisively to the first semifinal of this tournament to ensure a place in the final. Dani Olmo provided an assist, Lamine Yamal saw a penalty awarded in his favour and Cubarsí was impeccable at the heart of the defence. Furthermore, Pedri and Ferran Torres came on to provide fresh legs and quality towards the end of the match. The other finalists are Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia and Gavi, who cheered on their teammate from the bench.

Gordon can break new ground

Wednesday sees Anthony Gordon potentially in action against Leo Messi and Argentina. A win for England would see nine FC Barcelona players in the final, setting a new record for the club regarding World Cup final representation.

Blaugranes feature in five consecutive finals

There has been blaugrana representation in the last five World Cup finals. There were the eight players in the squad of World Cup winners Spain in 2010. Four years later, Javier Mascherano and Leo Messi played for Argentina at Brazil 2014. Then Russia 2018 saw Samuel Umtiti and Ousmane Dembélé win with France after playing Ivan Rakitić and Croatia. The most recent final in the 2022 World Cup saw Ousmane Dembélé and Jules Kounde lose on penalties to Leo Messi and Argentina.

Barça again has a notable presence in the quest for the hallowed international trophy and a new record may even be set for blaugranes reaching the final.

More news here