Bristol City pre‑season: Newcastle friendly win

In late July 2026 Bristol City continued its pre‑season programme in Spain before returning to the UK for a series of friendlies. After a closed‑door match against Newport County, the Robins travelled to Swindon Town’s County Ground, winning 3‑1. New signing Lorent Tolaj scored both goals within minutes of coming on and Jed Wallace added a third on his debut, giving manager Michael Skubala a positive start and leaving the squad injury‑free.

The squad then hosted Premier League side Newcastle United at Ashton Gate on 29 July. Bristol City produced a commanding 4‑1 victory. Sam Greenwood opened the scoring from a free‑kick that rattled the cross‑bar, Tolaj doubled the lead before halftime and Max Bird made it 3‑0 early in the second half. Newcastle’s lone reply came from Harvey Barnes, while an own‑goal by Sunderland defender Sven Botman sealed the win. About 21,000 spectators attended, and the result provided a further confidence boost as the Robins sharpened tactics ahead of the Championship season.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe highlighted defensive frailties exposed by the defeat, noting the need for a new right‑back and centre‑back. Injuries kept several first‑team regulars out, including Bruno Guimarães and Nick Pope. The club’s transfer activity continued, with a €30 million deal for 24‑year‑old goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Sporting Braga close to completion, and earlier signings Aladji Bamba, Bazoumana Touré, Sean Steur and Ewen Jaouen added to the squad.