Celtic concluded their pre-season with a thrilling victory in the Como Cup, defeating Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1. The Celts showcased their resilience, converting all five penalties to secure a 5-3 win, highlighting their readiness for the upcoming season.
Celtic Sign Off Pre-Season with Como Cup Win Over Al-Ahli
On Saturday, July 26, 2025, Celtic FC wrapped up their pre-season campaign in style, clinching the Como Cup with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia. The match, held in the scenic surroundings of Como, Italy, ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time, leading to a tense shootout where Celtic emerged victorious, converting all five of their penalties.
Match Overview
The encounter was a fitting conclusion to Celtic’s pre-season preparations, showcasing both the strengths and areas for improvement as they gear up for the competitive season ahead. The match was characterized by moments of brilliance, tactical battles, and a display of determination from both sides.
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First Half Action: The first half saw Celtic struggle to find their rhythm, with Al-Ahli taking the lead midway through the half. A stunning scissor kick from the Saudi side caught Celtic’s goalkeeper, Jere Sinisalo, off guard, putting the Hoops on the back foot. Despite a composed defensive performance from Cameron Carter-Vickers, Celtic found it challenging to create clear-cut chances.
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Celtic’s Response: After trailing at halftime, Celtic came out with renewed vigor in the second half. The breakthrough came from a well-executed corner kick, where James Forrest’s delivery was expertly cushioned by Trusty, allowing him to smash the ball home from close range. This goal not only leveled the match but also reinvigorated Celtic’s attacking intent.
Penalty Shootout Drama
With the score tied at 1-1, the match proceeded to penalties, a scenario that added an extra layer of excitement to the proceedings. Celtic’s players stepped up confidently, each taking their spot kicks with precision.
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Perfect Penalty Performance: The Celts converted all five of their penalties, with notable strikes from Engels, Welsh, Summers, McCowan, and Yamada. Sinisalo, who had faced criticism earlier in the match, redeemed himself by saving one of Al-Ahli’s attempts, showcasing his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
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Al-Ahli’s Efforts: Despite their strong performance throughout the match, Al-Ahli could not match Celtic’s composure in the shootout. Their players faced a daunting task against a determined Celtic side, ultimately falling short in the decisive moments.
Key Players and Performances
Several players stood out during the match, contributing significantly to Celtic’s success and providing glimpses of their potential for the upcoming season.
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James Forrest: The veteran winger was instrumental in Celtic’s attacking play, providing the assist for the equalizing goal and consistently threatening down the flanks. His experience and leadership on the pitch were evident, and he will be a crucial figure as the season progresses.
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Cameron Carter-Vickers: The central defender was a rock at the back, demonstrating composure and strength in aerial duels. His ability to read the game and organize the defense will be vital for Celtic as they aim to solidify their backline in the upcoming matches.
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Trusty: The young midfielder’s goal was a testament to his potential, showcasing his ability to find space in the box and finish clinically. His performance will likely earn him more playing time as the season unfolds.
Managerial Insights
Celtic’s manager expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability. The match served as a valuable learning experience, highlighting areas for improvement while also showcasing the team’s strengths.
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Tactical Adjustments: The manager’s decision to make tactical changes at halftime proved effective, as Celtic came out with a more aggressive approach in the second half. This adaptability will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the upcoming season.
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Building Team Chemistry: The pre-season has been focused on building chemistry among players, and the manager noted that the team’s ability to respond to adversity in the match against Al-Ahli was a positive sign. The camaraderie and understanding on the pitch will be essential as they navigate the challenges of the season.
Looking Ahead: The Season Awaits
With the Como Cup victory under their belts, Celtic now turns its attention to the competitive fixtures that lie ahead. The team will need to build on this momentum as they prepare for the Scottish Premiership and European competitions.
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Upcoming Challenges: The Hoops will face a demanding schedule, with key matches against rival teams in the league. The victory in the Como Cup will serve as a confidence booster, but the players must remain focused and continue to improve.
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Transfer Market Activity: As the transfer window remains open, Celtic may look to strengthen their squad further. The need for additional depth, particularly in the attacking positions, has been highlighted, especially with injuries affecting key players.
Conclusion: A Promising Start
Celtic’s triumph in the Como Cup marks a positive end to their pre-season preparations. The match against Al-Ahli showcased the team’s resilience, skill, and potential as they gear up for the challenges of the new season. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, the Hoops are poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and European competitions.
As the players celebrate their victory, the focus now shifts to the hard work ahead. The lessons learned from the match will be invaluable as Celtic aims to build on this success and strive for glory in the upcoming season. Football fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with passion, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
