AC Milan delivered a commanding performance in their pre-season friendly clash against Liverpool, securing a 4-2 win at Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong on Saturday, July 26, 2025. In a match filled with fluid attacking plays, defensive challenges, and spectacular goals, the Rossoneri looked sharp, cohesive, and ready for the new season under head coach Massimiliano Allegri.
Milan’s goals came courtesy of Rafael Leão (10’), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (52’), and a second-half brace from Noah Okafor (59’, 90+4’). Liverpool found the back of the net twice, thanks to strikes from Dominik Szoboszlai (26’) and Cody Gakpo (90+3), but the Reds couldn’t keep pace with Milan’s intensity and clinical finishing.
Allegri’s Tactical Masterclass in 3-5-2 Formation
Manager Massimiliano Allegri opted for a 3-5-2 formation that worked wonders for his side. The system allowed Milan to control the midfield, launch rapid counterattacks, and remain compact defensively. This match not only resulted in a morale-boosting win but also showcased the team’s growing rhythm and tactical discipline.
Allegri, visibly satisfied on the sidelines, watched his players execute the game plan with precision. The match also served as a vital test of squad depth, with several young and fringe players stepping up impressively.
First Half: Leão’s Brilliance Gives Milan Early Edge
From the first whistle, both teams approached the match with high intensity. Liverpool threatened early through Mohamed Salah, who tested Milan’s defense on multiple occasions, only to be met by a composed Malick Thiaw, who closed down space expertly.
Milan’s first golden chance came when Leão capitalized on an error from Alisson but failed to convert. However, the Portuguese forward redeemed himself shortly after, receiving a swift pass during a transition play and firing a left-footed shot past Alisson at the near post in the 10th minute. The move was a textbook example of Allegri’s counterattacking blueprint.
Liverpool responded well, with Szoboszlai curling in a beautiful equalizer from outside the box in the 26th minute, catching Mike Maignan off guard. The score remained level as the teams entered halftime, but Milan had shown glimpses of dominance.
Second Half: Milan Turn Up the Heat with Tactical Changes
After the break, Allegri made impactful changes, bringing on Noah Okafor, Yunus Musah, Matteo Gabbia, and Filippo Terracciano. The substitutions immediately paid off. In the 52nd minute, Leão once again showed his vision by setting up Loftus-Cheek, who slotted the ball past Alisson to restore Milan’s lead.
Just minutes later, another slick move saw Alexis Saelemaekers combining with Okafor down the right wing. The Swiss forward made no mistake, extending the lead to 3-1 with a composed finish.
With a two-goal cushion, Allegri gave playing time to younger players such as Estupiñán and Comotto. While Liverpool did manage to pull one back late in the game through Cody Gakpo’s header in stoppage time, the Rossoneri had the last word.
Okafor Seals the Deal with Late Strike
In the dying moments, Okafor pounced on a defensive error by Liverpool and coolly slotted home Milan’s fourth goal, completing his brace and sealing a well-deserved 4-2 win for the Italian giants.
The final whistle marked an impressive outing for Milan, who looked dangerous every time they surged forward. Their transitions were quick, decision-making sharp, and finishing ruthless — all signs of a team sharpening up well before the competitive season begins.
A Promising Pre-Season Display
More than just a scoreline, this match underlined several positives for Milan. Allegri’s tactical setup proved effective, Leão and Okafor were standout performers, and the depth of the squad gave promising signs ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign.
Young talents and newcomers had their moment to shine, and Allegri likely left Hong Kong with a better idea of his ideal starting XI and tactical flexibility.
Match Line-Ups: Liverpool vs AC Milan
Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Robertson, Van Dijk, Gravenberch, Stephenson; Morton, Szoboszlai; Ngumoha, Elliott, Salah; Wirtz
Head Coach: Arne Slot
AC Milan (3-5-2):
Maignan; Pavlovic, Thiaw, Tomori; Bartesaghi, Pulisic, Fofana, Ricci, Saelemaekers; Leão, Loftus-Cheek
Head Coach: Massimiliano Allegri
ALSO READ :
