Arsenal open pre-season campaign with AC Milan win | OneFootball

Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal as Arsenal opened their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 win over AC Milan.

Saka struck the winner at Singapore’s National Stadium eight minutes into the second half, converting from a brilliant cross from substitute Jakub Kiwior.

The 23-year-old was named captain for the clash with Martin Odegaard absent from the starting side as Arsenal stepped up their preparations for the new campaign.

Summer signing Christian Norgaard debuted in central midfield, while fellow arrivals Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga came on at half-time for their first Arsenal appearances.

The Gunners dominated the clash in Singapore, dominating the possession count (53%) and recording 23 shots on goal, in comparison to Milan’s three.

Mikel Merino came close to adding an Arsenal second when his header was well saved by young goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani.

There was also an appearance for 15-year-old Max Dowman, who was introduced for Saka on 66 minutes and scored in the pre-arranged penalty shootout that followed.

Despite Arsenal’s 1-0 win, a shootout took place in Singapore. A marathon featuring 18 kicks eventually saw AC Milan prevail 6-5 on penalties. Martin Odegaard, Reiss Nelson, Jakub Kiwior and Marli Salmon all missed for the Gunners.

Arsenal next face Newcastle United at the same venue on July 27th, before a meeting with North London rivals Tottenham in Hong Kong completes the tour.

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