International Champions Cup: Neymar strikes, Barca edge past Man U

Star Brazilian striker Neymar, amid a frenzy of transfer speculation, struck a decisive goal as Barcelona edged past Manchester United at the International Champions Cup here on Thursday.

The 25-year-old continued his rich vein of form as he smashed his third goal in two matches to hand the Jose Mourinho-led side their first pre-season defeat.

With the crucial goal, Neymar also showed why he is reportedly the subject of a world-record offer i.e a likely move of 222 million Euros from Paris Saint-Germain.

United made a bright start in the match, with their pace on the break through Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard causing plenty of problems.

However, the visitors failed to keep their momentum as they struggled to stop Barcelona's star duo of Neymar and Lionel Messi.

Soon, Neymar stripped the ball from Antonio Valencia in the penalty area and found the back of the net in the 31st minute--the goal which was enough to secure a back-to-back victory for new Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.

In another clash, Danilo made his debut while Kevin De Bruyne led from the front as Manchester City registered a resounding 4-1 win over Real Madrid in California.

-ANI