Folkestone 2–0 Charlton Athletic U21 | International Club Friendly | 18 July 2026

Folkestone recorded an impressive 2‑0 victory over Charlton Athletic’s Under‑21 side in a pre‑season friendly at the BuildKent Stadium. The non‑league side showed sharpness and cohesion that belied their lower status, taking the game to their youthful opponents from the outset and emerging with a thoroughly deserved win.

Pre‑Season Progress

For Folkestone, this friendly formed part of their build‑up to the upcoming Isthmian League campaign. Manager Neil Cugley will have been delighted with the intensity his side showed, particularly in the opening 45 minutes. Charlton’s youngsters, meanwhile, used the fixture to gain valuable senior experience, but they struggled to cope with Folkestone’s physicality and well‑drilled organisation.

Match Highlights

• 17' – Folkestone open the scoring: a long ball forward is knocked down by striker Kieron Everest for Callum Davies, who curls a low shot into the far corner.
• 34' – Charlton’s best chance falls to winger Mason Burstow, but his drive is tipped over by Folkestone goalkeeper Tim Roberts.
• 68' – Folkestone double their lead when Johan Caney‑Bryan pounces on a defensive error to slot home from close range.

Player Spotlights

Folkestone’s Callum Davies was a constant menace on the right flank, his pace and dribbling creating numerous opportunities. At the back, captain Matt Newman marshalled the defence expertly, ensuring Charlton’s forwards rarely had a clear sight of goal. For the visitors, midfielder Karamoko Dembélé showed flashes of creativity but lacked support in the final third.

What It Means

For Folkestone, this result provides a major confidence boost ahead of the new season. Charlton Athletic’s Under‑21 side will take lessons from the defeat, particularly in the need for greater defensive concentration. Pre‑season friendlies are primarily about fitness and sharpness, but Folkestone’s performance suggests they could be a force in their division this year.