It was a tightly contested Premier League International Cup match at Kingsmeadow, as Chelsea emerged victorious with a slender 3-1 win over Celtic.
The match began with both teams evenly matched. Celtic, and Chelsea each displayed tactical awareness in the early minutes.
In the 8th minute, Chelsea broke the deadlock. Capitalising on a counter-attack, they scored to take the lead.
Celtic responded with vigour. In the 12th minute, Dede’s high-pressure play led to a chance for Celtic. Cummings set up a defender for a finish, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
As the match progressed, Chelsea defended a free kick effectively, while Celtic’s Carse saw his shot blocked inside the area.
Approaching the half-hour mark, Celtic’s Agbaire played a key role, both in defence and attack. He nearly scored from a corner, but his header went just wide.
Chelsea maintained pressure with a corner, well-saved by Celtic’s goalkeeper Josh Clarke. Celtic created chances with dangerous balls into the box, but Chelsea’s defence stood firm.
The first half concluded with end-to-end play, but the score remained in Chelsea’s favour.
Celtic started the second half with a bang as Cummings struck a thunderous equaliser in the 49th minute. The Hoops continued to press, with Kyle Ure striking the post in the 53rd minute.
Chelsea regained the lead in the 58th minute with a neat finish. Celtic continued to probe, hitting the post again in the 77th minute through Hatton’s effort.
As the match neared its conclusion, Celtic pushed for a leveller. Quinn’s low ball across the box in the 86th minute was just out of reach for his teammates.
Chelsea sealed their victory with a third goal in the 90th minute, capitalizing on a defensive mistake from Celtic. In the additional time, Celtic attempted to find another goal but were unable to break through the Chelsea defence.
It ends in unfortunate defeat for the young Hoops after a positive performance in London.#CHECEL | #PLIC | #COYBIG🍀 pic.twitter.com/MJLymSXGcJ
— Celtic FC B (@CelticFCB) December 20, 2023
The match ended with Chelsea securing a narrow 3-1 victory over Celtic in the Premier League International Cup.
