The Potters Stage a Comeback in Their Preseason Match | Crewe Alexandra 1-2 Stoke City

In this third preseason match, The Potters faced a significantly tougher opponent compared to their previous games, having scored a total of 8 goals in the last two matches.

However, this match proved to be more challenging, and Steve Schumacher fielded his ideal starting eleven, but Crewe Alexandra took them by surprise.

A Tough Start for Schumacher's Side

The match had just begun when Crewe Alexandra took the lead in the 2nd minute of the first half, with Max Sanders scoring the opening goal early in the game. The first half continued to be difficult, with The Potters trailing 1-0 at halftime due to Sanders' goal past Viktor Johansson.

It was expected that Steve Schumacher would make all the substitutions at the start of the second half, but plans changed. Instead, all substitutions were made in the 60th minute, practically changing the entire lineup except for Viktor Johansson in goal.

The game-changing substitution was the introduction of Vidigal for Manhoef in the 60th minute. The Portuguese forward became the man of the match, turning the game around for Stoke City. Vidigal was instrumental in breaking the deadlock and securing the victory for The Potters.

He scored the equalizer in the 64th minute and then netted his second goal of the match and the preseason in the closing minutes. In the 87th minute, The Potters took a 2-1 lead, clinching the victory at the end of the match.

READ MORE: Preseason Preview | Stoke City vs. Crewe Alexandra

An Impressive Preseason for Stoke City

With this result, Stoke City has now won three consecutive matches. Steve Schumacher is building a highly competitive team with a winning mentality, where both starters and substitutes step up and manage the game effectively.

This victory was crucial, and the substitutions continue to yield great results for the team, this time with André Vidigal making a significant impact. The 25-year-old has been a standout this preseason, along with young talents like Emre Tezgel and Bae Jun-ho, and now André Vidigal. Not to mention Niall Ennis, who also delivered a perfect performance against Cork City FC. Youth continues to be a vital factor for Stoke City.