Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana made a notable impact in Southampton’s 3-1 preseason friendly win against Montpellier on Saturday morning, as the Saints stepped up preparations for the upcoming 2024/25 season.
The match began with both teams exchanging early chances in a lively opening ten minutes. Southampton struck first when Samuel Edozie’s clever play with Joe Aribo drew a foul from Enzo Tchato, earning a penalty. Sulemana’s initial spot-kick was saved by Montpellier goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte, but the ball slipped from his hand, allowing Sulemana to convert the rebound in the 4th minute.
Southampton doubled their lead just before halftime. Defender Edwards launched a precise pass to Tyler Dibling, who skillfully headed the ball into his path and finished with a low right-footed shot inside the near post in the 45th minute.
Montpellier pulled one back in the 53rd minute with a beautifully placed free-kick by Wahbi Khazri that left goalkeeper McCarthy no chance. However, the Saints restored their two-goal advantage shortly after. Saints were awarded a free-kick near the left corner of the box, Yukinari Sugawara delivered an excellent cross into the box and half-time substitute Taylor Harwood-Bellis headed home in the 55th minute, sealing a 3-1 victory for Southampton.
