​Celtic’s first pre-season clash finished level as they played out a 1-1 draw with Shelbourne on Tuesday night. The Irish side struck late, taking the lead with only a few minutes remaining, but Shin Yamada grabbed a stoppage-time equaliser to secure a share of the spoils for Celtic. Manager Martin O’Neill’s squad will now head to Portugal for a training camp, where they have a friendly lined up against Sporting CP next week.
The encounter in Dublin provided plenty of action and signs of promise for Celtic as they prepare for the upcoming campaign. The home side gave the visitors a real test, pressing high and creating chances of their own and it looked as though Shelbourne might hold on for the win. However, Yamada’s late intervention ensured Celtic left with a valuable draw and momentum ahead of the trip abroad.
Fans who traveled to the game were treated to an engaging 90 minutes that included spirited pressing, swift counter-attacks, and moments of quality in both boxes. Shelbourne’s resilience was evident, as they defended stoutly and looked dangerous on the break, while Celtic’s attack showed flashes of imagination and intent, particularly in the closing stages as they sought an equaliser.
The match also served as a platform for several players to stake a claim for places in the squad for the coming season. Both managers will have plenty to review as they assess fitness, tactical shape, and cohesion ahead of the forthcoming campaign. Shelbourne will take heart from their late winner and the desire they showed throughout the match, while Celtic will be buoyed by the late equaliser and the prospect of building fitness ahead of their trip to Portugal.
With the training camp in Portugal on the horizon, Celtic will be keen to sharpen their game ahead of the friendly against Sporting CP next week. The fixture in Portugal will offer another valuable test for O’Neill’s men as they continue their preparations, aiming to hit peak form when the competitive matches begin.
For supporters back home and in Dublin, the images from Tuesday’s match captured the atmosphere of a competitive, earnest pre-season clash. From the early pressure applied by Celtic to Shelbourne’s organized rearguard and the late drama that decided the outcome, the contest provided a snapshot of what fans can look forward to as the season approaches. In the end, the 1-1 scoreline reflected a balanced encounter where both sides demonstrated resilience, quality, and the hunger to fine-tune their systems before the official fixtures begin.
Shelbourne Vs. Celtic – Tue, Jul 7th 2026, 18:00 – a fixture that showcased competitive football in Dublin and set the tone for Celtic’s pre-season journey as they prepare for a high-profile test against Sporting CP next week.