Forget about the Fighting Irish – it was the scorching Celts who dominated Chelsea 4-1, according to Michael Gannon in America.
The temperature was soaring at Notre Dame’s football fortress as the Hoops lit up the pitch. Brendan Rodgers’ squad broke down a tough Chelsea team in front of ecstatic US supporters in Indiana, boosting their confidence for the upcoming season. In-demand player Matt O’Riley shone with a composed opening goal before setting up Kyogo for the second in an outstanding first half performance.
Late in the game, Luis Palma ignited a scoring spree, netting the third goal and assisting Mikey Johnston for an incredible fourth, sealing off a successful US tour. Victories against Manchester City and now Chelsea have Celtic riding high as they gear up for the new season. O’Riley’s stellar play and keeper Kasper Schmeichel’s impressive saves reinforced the team’s strong performance.
The energetic display in front of the US crowd has Celtic feeling optimistic for the challenges ahead. Rodgers will be pushing for new signings, but the current squad in Scotland is already looking sharp. The main concern is retaining O’Riley amidst interest from clubs like Atalanta and Southampton, with Liverpool also keeping an eye on him.
Celtic is hopeful to keep their momentum going, although injuries to Daizen Maeda and Nicholas Kuhn serve as reminders of the team’s vulnerability. Despite a tough start against Chelsea, the Hoops proved themselves against a formidable Blues squad. Although Maresca’s Blues aimed for possession-based gameplay, Celtic controlled the match.
As Chelsea pushed in the second half, Schmeichel’s saves kept Celtic on top. The Hoops’ substitutes ramped up the pressure, with Palma and Johnston adding to the goal tally. Though Chelsea managed to score a penalty, Celtic’s solid performance overshadowed any setback.
With talks of potential signings circulating, Celtic’s existing squad is already proving their worth. Rodgers has instilled a style of intense, possession-based football that the team now executes effortlessly. The fans are enjoying the pre-season success but remain eager for investments ahead of the Champions League campaign.
Rodgers’ recent comments underline the importance of strengthening the squad for upcoming challenges. Injuries emphasize the team’s vulnerability, especially if key players like Kyogo are sidelined. With time left in the transfer window, Celtic fans hope for reinforcements to solidify the team’s chances in the upcoming season.
If the board fails to deliver new signings promptly, Celtic’s supporters may express their discontent on flag day.
