Newcastle pre-season struggles continued on Wednesday as they fell 1-0 to a well-drilled K League XI in South Korea. The loss marked the Magpies’ third consecutive defeat in friendlies, with earlier setbacks coming against Celtic and Arsenal. To make matters worse, midfielder Joe Willock was stretchered off late in the game with a suspected ankle injury, adding to manager Eddie Howe’s growing concerns.
Sluggish Start Continues Tour Troubles
Newcastle began the match with a familiar starting lineup, similar to the one that narrowly lost 3-2 to Arsenal last weekend. Key first-team players Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton remained on the bench, while striker Alexander Isak was notably absent. The side lacked fluency and sharpness from the opening whistle.
In contrast, the K League XI showed cohesion and energy. As they are mid-season domestically, their match fitness and tempo gave them an edge from the outset. They pressed high, won midfield battles, and created the better chances throughout the first half.
Jin-Gyu Kim Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Jin-gyu Kim seized space on the left wing. He calmly set himself before curling a beautiful shot into the far top corner, giving the K League XI a deserved lead. The goal highlighted Newcastle’s defensive lapse and inability to keep up with the speed of their Korean opponents.
Despite the setback, Newcastle had glimpses of promise. Summer signing Anthony Elanga nearly equalized minutes later. The winger’s effort was tipped onto the crossbar by the K League goalkeeper in one of the few threatening moves from the Magpies in the first half.
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Missed Chances Haunt Newcastle Again
Newcastle improved slightly in the second half, taking control of possession and pushing forward with more intent. However, their finishing let them down.
Will Osula, starting as the only senior striker in Isak’s absence, had multiple opportunities but failed to convert. His shots were either too weak or off-target, allowing the K League XI to maintain their lead. Anthony Gordon also came close near the final whistle, blasting a shot just wide of the post.
The K League XI, while more conservative in the second half, still looked dangerous on the counterattack. Their defense remained organized, frustrating Newcastle’s attackers and forcing hurried shots from difficult angles.
Willock Injury Adds to Howe’s Concerns
Late in the game, Newcastle’s night took a darker turn. Joe Willock, who had just returned from previous injury troubles, went down with what appeared to be an ankle problem. Medical staff stretchered him off the pitch, and his visible pain cast a shadow over the match.
After the game, head coach Eddie Howe admitted the situation didn’t “look great on the pitch” but hoped the injury wouldn’t be serious. “Joe has suffered enough,” he said. “Fingers crossed it’s not a major setback.”
Willock’s injury adds to an already challenging summer for Newcastle. With key players still regaining fitness and back-to-back defeats mounting, the club’s pre-season preparations are far from ideal.
K League Impress with Energy and Execution
The match served as a showcase for the K League XI, who executed their game plan with confidence. Midfielder Dong-gyeong Lee was particularly impressive in the first half, constantly troubling Newcastle’s backline with his movement and vision.
Their victory reflected not just pre-season form but the impact of playing regularly. While Newcastle showed signs of fatigue and miscommunication, the Korean side moved with purpose, defended well, and took their chances.
What Comes Next for Newcastle?
As Newcastle’s pre-season tour rolls on, the coaching staff has plenty to address. The lack of cutting edge in attack, visible fatigue, and now a worrying injury to a key midfielder raise questions about the team’s readiness for the new Premier League season.
With only a few games left before competitive fixtures begin, Howe will hope for better performances, improved fitness, and a speedy recovery for Willock. Otherwise, the club’s Premier League campaign could get off to a rocky start.
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