AC Milan stunned Liverpool 4-2 in a high-octane pre-season friendly on Saturday in Hong Kong SAR. An electric crowd witnessed record signing Florian Wirtz make his first start as the Italian side showcased their striking power.
Before kickoff, former Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish laid a wreath while both teams wore 'Diogo J 20' on their shirts in tribute to the late Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
The scoring opened in the 10th minute when Rafael Leao met Christian Pulisic's cross to send Milan ahead. Liverpool responded in the 30th, as Dominik Szoboszlai curled home a stylish equalizer after Rio Ngumoha capitalized on a long ball from Ryan Gravenberch.
Early in the second half, Leao broke away on a devastating counter-attack, racing past Conor Bradley before setting up Ruben Loftus-Cheek for the second Milan goal. Mohamed Salah missed a golden chance from Wirtz's pass, and Milan continued to dominate.
Noah Okafor added a third in the 60th minute, finishing a well-worked move, before Cody Gakpo nodded home a late reply for Liverpool. A defensive mix-up then allowed Okafor to stroll in his second of the night, sealing a 4-2 victory.
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri praised his squad's energy: 'The most beautiful and important thing in these first 20 days is the team's proactive attitude and increased endurance. Leao is maturing and ready for a big season.'
Liverpool boss Arne Slot acknowledged the fitness focus and rotation: 'Conceding four isn't ideal, but with seven senior players missing and 20 players given minutes, some had to play out of position. We still played our normal game but were vulnerable on the break.'
The match, part of both clubs' Asia tour, offered a global stage for talent development and fan engagement. Liverpool head next to Japan to face Yokohama F. Marinos, while Milan look ahead to their next preseason test. The Premier League season kicks off on August 15 when Liverpool host Bournemouth.
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AC Milan defeat Liverpool 4-2 in pre-season friendly in Hong Kong SAR
cgtn.com
