Arsenal vs AC Milan – A Pre-Season Clash to Remember

 

 – A Friendly in Name Only

Photo credit: Velmatty picture 

Photo credit: Bismark Nii Kojo Adjei ( Vell Marty pictures )

On a warm evening, under the floodlights of a buzzing stadium in the United States, Arsenal and AC Milan locked horns in a pre-season friendly that felt anything but friendly. Both giants of European football used the occasion not just for match fitness, but to make a statement ahead of the upcoming season.

Arsenal started the brighter of the two. Mikel Arteta’s men, sharp and fluid in possession, dominated the early proceedings. Declan Rice anchored the midfield with calm authority, while Bukayo Saka looked dangerous every time he touched the ball on the right wing. It took only 15 minutes for Arsenal to open the scoring. A quick one-two between Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz split Milan’s defense, and Havertz calmly slotted the ball past Mike Maignan.

Milan responded with resolve. In the 34th minute, Rafael Leão produced a moment of magic, weaving through Ben White and William Saliba before curling a stunning equalizer into the top corner. The stadium erupted, with fans from both camps appreciating the sheer quality of the goal.

The second half saw wholesale changes from both sides, but the tempo never dropped. Arsenal introduced Emile Smith Rowe and new signing Jurrien Timber, while Milan brought on Christian Pulisic and Tijjani Reijnders. In the 68th minute, a defensive lapse from Milan allowed Eddie Nketiah to pounce and restore Arsenal’s lead with a poacher’s finish.

Just when it seemed like Arsenal would see out the win, Milan struck back again—this time from a corner. Matteo Gabbia rose highest to head home in the 83rd minute, making it 2-2.

But Arsenal had one last trick up their sleeve. In stoppage time, Fabio Vieira delivered a beautiful lofted ball into the box, which was met by a thumping header from Gabriel Jesus. The ball kissed the underside of the bar and crossed the line—3-2 Arsenal.

The final whistle blew, and though it was just a friendly, the intensity, skill, and drama left fans feeling like they’d witnessed a classic. If this was a taste of what’s to come this season, both Arsenal and Milan supporters have plenty to be excited about.