Celtic closed out their summer schedule with a 1-1 draw against Al Ahli in the Como Cup, before holding their nerve to edge the penalty shootout 5-3.
It wasn’t a spectacle to remember, but Brendan Rodgers will have noted key takeaways as his squad prepare for the Premiership curtain-raiser at Celtic Park against St Mirren next weekend.
The biggest positive came from the reaction after halftime. Outplayed in the opening 45 minutes, Celtic responded with far greater intensity.
Auston Trusty’s equaliser summed that up—sharp positioning, brave commitment, and the hunger Rodgers will demand once the campaign begins.
Trusty’s progress is clear. Assured, aggressive and alert, the American center-back capped another fine pre-season display with a goal.
With Cameron Carter-Vickers not yet fully fit, he may be asked to anchor the defense in the early weeks.
Luke McCowan also impressed. The former Dundee midfielder looked comfortable in green and white, adding drive, composure and a cutting edge. He rattled the post, scored in the shootout, and was arguably Celtic’s standout alongside Trusty.
New signing Shin Yamada made his presence felt too. Quick, direct and confident, he stretched Al Ahli’s backline and produced moments of real promise.
An offside strike and lively link-up play suggested he may already be in Rodgers’ thoughts for the St Mirren opener.
Not everything clicked. Paulo Bernardo struggled to dictate tempo, while Marco Tilio’s indecision again cost momentum in attack. Both have more to prove before cementing regular roles.
Still, five perfect penalties, finished by Yamada’s cool effort, ensured Celtic ended pre-season with confidence intact.
Encouraging signs are there, but Rodgers knows sharpness must arrive quickly.