Celtic Thrash Newcastle United 4–0 in Pre-Season Friendly Rout
Celtic sent a clear message ahead of the new season by dismantling Newcastle United 4–0 in a high-profile pre-season friendly. The Scottish champions showed no mercy against their English opponents, who looked far from their Premier League-best without star striker Alexander Isak.
The Hoops took the lead in the 28th minute when Engel calmly converted from the penalty spot. Just before the break, they doubled their advantage in remarkable fashion. A long goal-kick from veteran goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel — now with Celtic — bounced past the entire Newcastle defense. Their keeper rushed out but misjudged the flight, leaving Kenny to slot home into an empty net.
It only got worse for Newcastle United after the interval. Second-half goals from Yang and Scales sealed an emphatic victory, leaving the Magpies stunned and their pre-season preparations in question.
Newcastle were notably without Alexander Isak, amid reports linking the Swedish forward with a big-money move to Liverpool. His absence was felt as the Premier League side struggled to create anything meaningful in the final third.
Pre-Season Friendly – Full-Time Result
Celtic 4–0 Newcastle United
Goals: Engel 28' (pen), Kenny 45', Yang 52', Scales 75'
