The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two European powerhouses, AC Milan and Arsenal, as they face off in a club friendly at Singapore's National Stadium on July 23, 2025. This match promises to be an exciting showcase of new talent, tactical experiments, and the integration of new signings.

 

 Head-to-Head Record

Arsenal hold a historical edge over AC Milan, with four wins in five meetings. Their most recent encounter ended in a 3-1 victory for the Gunners in a friendly match in Dubai in December 2022. Competitive matches between the two teams have also favored Arsenal, with notable results including a 5-2 aggregate win in the 2017-18 Europa League quarter-final and a 2-0 win in the 2007-08 Champions League Round of 16.

 

Recent Form

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season with 89 points, narrowly missing out on the title. They have been busy in the transfer market, signing Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Nørgaard, and Martín Zubimendi, among others. Their recent 2-0 friendly win over Watford showcased their early promise, with Kai Havertz scoring after recovering from a hamstring injury.

 

AC Milan, on the other hand, had a disappointing 2024-25 season, finishing eighth in Serie A and missing out on European qualification. They have undergone significant changes under Massimiliano Allegri's second stint, with the departures of Theo Hernandez and Tijjani Reijnders offset by the arrivals of Luka Modrić and Samuele Ricci.

 

 Predictions

Highlighted Predictions:

 

  • Score Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 AC Milan. Arsenal's high-pressing, possession-based style should give Milan's defense a hard time, especially with the likes of Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz in attack.
  • Both Teams to Score – Yes: Given the historical trend of 3.2 goals per game and pre-season openness, it's likely that both teams will find the net.
  • Over 2.5 Goals: The match is expected to be open and entertaining, with both teams creating scoring opportunities.
  • Key Battle: Bukayo Saka vs. Davide Bartesaghi. Saka's pace and skill will test Milan's left-back, and if he dominates, Arsenal could overrun Milan's left flank.

 

Why This Match Matters

This friendly match is a crucial test for both teams as they prepare for the new season. For Arsenal, it's an opportunity to integrate new signings and fine-tune their tactics, while for AC Milan, it's a chance to rebuild and test their revamped squad against elite opposition. The Singapore Festival of Football's high-profile stage adds excitement, with both teams showcasing star power and youth prospects. Expect an open, entertaining match, with Arsenal's attacking edge likely prevailing but Milan's counter-attacking threat keeping it close.