Barcelona claim crown as resoundingly successful 2016 Iscar Cup draws to a close

The curtain came down on the prestigious Iscar Cup LaLiga Promises today, Saturday 26 April, with FC Barcelona crowned champions. The event was a resounding success once again, continuing its growth and serving up three days of thrilling Under-10s action.

This edition will go down in history, and not just as the first held under the LaLiga Promises umbrella. Alex Garcia's saves and Eric Alcaide's attacking magic caught the eye for eventual runners-up RCD Espanyol, while FC Barcelona played some exquisite stuff en route to and in the final, in which they triumphed 3-1 with Alejandro Dominguez their hero. However, over and above all that, most importantly the Iscar Cup once more showcased the values underlying football at its purest, such as teamwork, solidarity and sportsmanship on and off the pitch.

All 27 first-rate teams involved made their mark over the three days at the Estadio San Miguel in Iscar and the Estadio San Juan in Pedrajas de San Esteban, the competition's official sister venue. There was no shortage of atmosphere, joy, passion and excitement on display as the crowd were wowed by no fewer than 333 players, 70 matches and 234 goals.

The tournament drew to a close following numerous stirring and unforgettable moments. After the sad news of the death of LaLiga legend Johan Cruyff on Thursday, all the youngsters and coaches taking part in the Iscar Cup wore black armbands in his honour. For the very same reason, it was decided that from this edition on, the Player of the Tournament award would bear Cruyff's name. Furthermore, in another fitting tribute, Barcelona – the club where Cruyff left an indelible legacy – dedicated their victory to the Dutchman's family and loved ones.