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Arsenal’s Narrow Victory Over AC Milan Highlights Saka’s Brilliance and Urgent Transfer Needs
In a thrilling pre-season clash under the Singapore sun, أرسنال edged out ميلان with a solitary goal, showcasing emerging talents while underscoring gaps in their attacking lineup. As the Gunners gear up for the new season, this match served as a timely reminder of their strengths and areas demanding reinforcement, particularly in the forward department amid ongoing talks for key signings.
- Arsenal beat Milan in Singapore
- Saka with only goal
- Gunners still lack threat in attack
Key Moments in Arsenal’s Win Over AC Milan: Saka’s Decisive Strike
The opening period unfolded at a leisurely tempo, with limited opportunities for either team to break through. A notable chance fell to Riccardo Calafiori, whose arched header from a set-piece was dramatically hooked away from the goal line, marking the nearest either side got to scoring before the interval. Efforts from Bukayo Saka و غابرييل Martinelli were thwarted by determined defenders, and Ethan Nwaneri’s powerful long-range attempt was skillfully diverted by netminder Pietro Terracciano.
Early in the second half, the deadlock was shattered. A precise delivery from defender Jakub Kiwior located Saka unmarked at the far post, allowing the winger to scramble the ball into the net and give Arsenal the lead they craved.
As the game wound down, Mikel Merino forced an impressive reaction save from backup keeper Lorenzo Torriani, who dove sharply to deny the midfielder’s headed effort. Soon after, a wayward shot from Reiss Nelson skimmed just wide after a deflection, yet it was clear throughout that Arsenal could benefit from a prolific finisher like Viktor Gyokeres to bolster their offensive options.
Penalty Drama and Milan’s Consolation Despite Arsenal’s Triumph
Even after securing a 1-0 win within regular time, the encounter proceeded to a penalty shootout as dictated by the Singapore Festival of Football rules. Misses from Martin Odegaard, Nelson, and Kiwior were denied by Torriani’s heroics, but Arsenal’s Kepa Arrizabalaga responded by stopping attempts from Lorenzo Colombo, Mattia Liberali, and Noah Okafor. Unfortunately, young prospect Marli Salmon fired high, paving the way for Christian Comotto to seal a shootout victory for Milan, offering them a silver lining.
Standout Performances: Bukayo Saka Shines in Arsenal’s Attack
For the duration of his time on the field, Bukayo Saka dominated proceedings for Arsenal, becoming the focal point of their offensive plays as teammates consistently sought him out to ignite transitions. Despite the friendly nature, Milan’s defenders often swarmed him with multiple markers, yet Saka’s persistence paid off with a gritty goal that, while not flashy, proved vital.
Credit also to William Saliba, who cleverly disrupted two rapid Milan breaks without direct contact, effectively neutralizing threats from Rafael Leao and Samuel Chukwueze through smart positioning alone.
New Faces and Substitutes: Arsenal’s Fresh Talent Emerges
Christian Norgaard stood out as the sole new recruit in the initial lineup, handling midfield duties with ease in what proved a relatively straightforward outing for the seasoned player.
At the break, Mikel Arteta swapped in Martin Zubimendi for Norgaard, giving supporters an exciting preview of the high-profile addition. Zubimendi brought a more visionary approach, attempting several incisive through-balls, contrasting with his predecessor’s sturdy style. Kepa Arrizabalaga also entered for David Raya, facing minimal threats aside from parrying a tame shot from Rafael Leao and excelling with three saves in the penalties.
Youth Prospects Steal the Spotlight in Arsenal’s Pre-Season
The highlight came with the introduction of 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman, who replaced Saka on the right flank for the last 30 minutes. Joined by fellow teenager Marli Salmon (subbing for Saliba) and 18-year-old Josh Nichols (in for Ben White), the youngsters injected energy.
Dowman displayed boldness right away, maneuvering inside to create shooting chances, though only one effort materialized and it rolled harmlessly wide. Salmon maintained poise in defense despite his inexperience and the penalty miss, while Nichols showed enthusiasm with a dynamic run down the wing late on, even if his tackling was occasionally zealous.
Looking Ahead: Arsenal’s Pre-Season Schedule and Transfer Updates
Arsenal continues their preparations with a matchup against Newcastle in Singapore this Sunday, followed by a Hong Kong clash with rivals توتنهام. They’ll wrap up with home games versus Spanish sides فياريال and Athletic Club. With negotiations progressing toward a deal with نادي سبورتينغ لشبونة for Viktor Gyokeres-potentially valued at around €70 million based on recent reports-the Gunners aim to integrate such firepower soon, addressing the attacking voids evident in this narrow win over AC Milan.
