Kematen vs Imst - Friendlies Clubs

The Friendlies Clubs returns to the home ground on July 8, 2026, where Kematen and Imst will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

There is plenty riding on this Friendlies Clubs encounter for Kematen and Imst alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. Kematen's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Newcastle had agreed a deal worth £49m for the Switzerland international, who was a breakout star at the World Cup as he scored three goals in their run to the quarter-finals.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Kematen and Imst have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Their press is quick and co-ordinated in some areas of the pitch and not others.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi might be the answer.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Friendlies Clubs standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Important qualities given that Bournemouth will expect him to be proactive.