- Bukayo Saka scored the only goal in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Milan in Singapore
- Milan won the post-match penalty shootout 6-5 thanks to 20-year-old keeper Lorenzo Torriani
- The match marked the first summer friendly for both clubs and Allegri’s return at Milan’s helm
Key Takeaways:
Arsenal totally outplayed Milan but secured only a 1:0 win in their friendly encounter held in Singapore. The Gunners’ star Bukayo Saka scored the only goal in the 53rd minute. After the final whistle, the two sides agreed to a penalty shootout, which was won by the Milan giants 6:5. This was the first friendly match of the summer for both teams, as well as the second debut of Massimiliano Allegri as manager of the Rossoneri.
One-nil to The Arsenal ❤️
A penalty shoot-out will now follow 🎯 pic.twitter.com/vqjJrer0e1
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 23, 2025
Mikel Arteta’s starting eleven featured most of Arsenal’s key players, along with new signing Christian Norgaard, who supported Declan Rice and Ethan Nwaneri in midfield. In attack, the team relied on captain Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli.
On the other hand, Allegri surprisingly opted for a 3-5-2 formation, with Christian Pulisic and captain Rafael Leao leading the frontline. Newly arrived goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano started between the posts, while another fresh addition, Samuele Ricci, operated in midfield.
In the first half, Arsenal were clearly the more dangerous side, with Nwaneri standing out with his composed touches. Despite numerous efforts, none of the Gunners’ attempts managed to beat Terracciano, who produced several fine saves. On Milan’s end, only Alexis Saelemaekers threatened David Raya’s goal, but his effort was off target.
At halftime, both managers made several substitutions. Among those entering the pitch were debutants Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi. In the second half, the Gunners increased the pressure. Their dominance paid off in the 53rd minute, when Milan’s resistance finally broke down and Saka scored from close range following a cross by Kiwior. The goal encouraged Arsenal to push even more, especially in the final stages, giving 20-year-old Milan goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani a chance to shine with several excellent saves.
After the final whistle, the teams surprisingly proceeded with a penalty shootout, which featured a total of 18 kicks before a winner emerged. The hero was Torriani, who saved three of Arsenal’s efforts. Kepa was just as impressive, stopping three Milan shots. The difference came with Marli Salman’s miss, followed by Christian Comotto converting the decisive spot-kick to hand Milan the shootout win and a small consolation.
On Sunday, Arsenal will face Newcastle in another friendly, once again in Singapore, while Milan are set to take on Liverpool a day earlier, but in Hong Kong.
