A pre-season friendly delivers more than just goals; it showcases emerging strategies and renewed spirits.
In a compelling pre-season friendly held in Hong Kong, AC Milan delivered a performance that transcended mere exhibition, securing a convincing 4-2 victory over English giants Liverpool. This match, far from a casual kick-about, served as a potent statement of intent from the Rossoneri, signalling a promising trajectory for the upcoming season under the strategic guidance of coach Massimiliano Allegri.
A Decisive Display in the Far East
The scoreline, featuring goals from Rafael Leão, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and a brace from Noah Okafor for Milan, contrasted with Liverpool`s efforts from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo. What stood out, however, was not just the number of goals, but the manner in which Milan achieved them. After a 2024-25 campaign that might best be filed under `forgettable,` this performance offers a significant psychological uplift, suggesting that Allegri’s meticulous hand is already shaping a cohesive and formidable squad.
Tactical Nuances and Potent Counter-Attacks
Milan, sporting their distinctive yellow jerseys, adopted a compact 5-4-1 formation, ceding possession to Liverpool but masterfully exploiting space on the counter. This tactical approach proved remarkably effective. The opening goal exemplified this strategy: Rafael Leão, operating with freedom in a central forward role, sprinted clear from a Christian Pulisic pass, unleashing a precise left-footed diagonal shot beyond Alisson. It was a beautiful finish, notably dedicated to the memory of Diogo Jota, an homage echoed by the club and the stadium with a touching `DJ20` card display.
Liverpool, fielding a mix of established stars and promising talents, responded with intensity. Szoboszlai`s equalizer, a powerful strike following a fortuitous rebound, showcased their individual quality. Yet, Milan remained unbowed, maintaining their defensive shape and continually probing for offensive opportunities. Despite Alisson`s notable saves against Pulisic and Leão, the Rossoneri demonstrated a clear intent that belied their “friendly” status.
Star Performances: Leão, Okafor, and Loftus-Cheek Shine
The second half saw a flurry of substitutions from both sides, with Liverpool opting for significant changes, including the withdrawal of key figures like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. However, it was Allegri`s adjustments that truly paid dividends. Leão continued his sensational performance, setting up Loftus-Cheek for a spectacular second goal that reinforced the Englishman`s burgeoning solidity in midfield. Then came Noah Okafor, the Swiss international, who netted two crucial goals, including one born from a Liverpool error, sealing Milan`s dominant 4-2 victory. His brace was a testament to his clinical finishing and sharp positional sense.
Beyond the goal-scorers, the entire Milan squad contributed. Ruben Loftus-Cheek`s dynamism, Alexis Saelemaekers` tireless work rate, and the vigilance of the entire defensive unit were palpable. New signing Estupinan made his debut, while Pietro Terracciano in goal confidently stepped in for Mike Maignan, ensuring stability between the posts. This collective effort underscored a team that, despite being a work in progress, clearly understands its coach’s directives.
Building Momentum: Beyond the Scoreline
This pre-season triumph over a Premier League powerhouse like Liverpool is more than just a notch in the win column; it`s a significant morale booster for AC Milan. It injects a much-needed dose of confidence into a squad looking to rebound from a challenging previous season. The tactical discipline, the effectiveness of their counter-attacks, and the standout individual performances suggest that Allegri is successfully embedding his philosophy. As the team now prepares for their next leg in Australia, this victory serves as a tangible sign of progress and a foundation upon which to build a truly competitive campaign.
“This victory isn`t just about the score; it`s a statement of intent, a hint of what AC Milan aims to achieve in the season ahead. A friendly, perhaps, but certainly not a trivial one.”
Gilbert Pendleton