Newcastle United vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen edged a lively pre-season friendly at St James' Park, coming from a flying start to hold off a spirited Newcastle fightback before nicking the win deep into the second half. It was end-to-end from the first whistle, with both sides using the occasion to test out summer signings and fresh tactical ideas ahead of the new season. Ibrahim Maza needed just one minute to put the visitors in front, finishing off a slick early move. Newcastle settled and drew level right before the break through Malick Thiaw in the 44th minute, sending the sides in level at the interval. The game stayed tight after the restart until Victor Boniface pounced in the 82nd minute to restore Leverkusen's lead and seal a 2-1 win. For Newcastle, it's a reminder there's still work to do defensively before the Premier League opener, even if the response to Maza's early goal showed encouraging fight. Leverkusen, meanwhile, will take confidence from another composed away performance as their own pre-season buildup continues.