Newcastle United's pre-season preparations took an exciting turn as Alexander Isak delivered a standout performance in their 3-2 win over Espanyol. The Swedish striker, who has been in fine form, netted a goal and provided an assist, proving pivotal in the Magpies' narrow victory.
Isak Steals the Show
Isak opened the scoring with a clinical finish, demonstrating the composure that has made him a fan favourite at St James' Park. His link-up play was equally impressive, setting up a goal for a teammate with a perfectly weighted pass.
Howe's Tactical Tweaks Pay Off
Manager Eddie Howe experimented with his lineup, giving minutes to fringe players while maintaining a strong core. The decision to deploy Isak in a central role proved inspired, with the 23-year-old causing constant problems for Espanyol's defence.
Defensive Concerns Remain
While the attacking play delighted Newcastle supporters, defensive lapses allowed Espanyol to score twice. Howe will want to address these issues before their Premier League opener against Aston Villa on August 12th.
The match, played at the Pinatar Arena in Spain, served as valuable preparation for both sides. Newcastle will now return to England for their final pre-season fixtures, with Isak looking like he's hitting top form at just the right time.
