Real Madrid Stumbles in Milan: 3-1 Loss to AC Milan in Pre-Season Friendly
Real Madrid's pre-season tour of the United States came to an end with a disappointing 3-1 defeat against AC Milan in a friendly match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Despite a strong start, Carlo Ancelotti's side was ultimately outplayed by a determined Milan team, highlighting areas for improvement ahead of the upcoming La Liga season.
Early Promise, Late Disappointment
The game started with a promising display from Real Madrid. Vinicius Junior opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a trademark skillful run and finish, sending the Madrid fans into raptures. The early goal seemed to set the tone for a comfortable victory, with the team exhibiting a positive tempo and attacking intent.
However, AC Milan responded with a determined fightback, equalizing through a penalty from Christian Pulisic in the 31st minute. Pulisic was again involved in the second goal, setting up Ruben Loftus-Cheek for a tap-in just before halftime. The second half saw more of the same, with Milan dominating possession and creating several clear-cut chances.
Late Blow
A defensive lapse from Real Madrid allowed Luka Jović to score a third goal in the 67th minute, effectively sealing the win for AC Milan. The defeat, despite being a friendly, will serve as a valuable lesson for Real Madrid.
Areas for Improvement
Ancelotti will need to address several weaknesses exposed in the match. The team's defense appeared shaky, particularly in the second half. Additionally, the midfield lacked control and creativity, allowing Milan to dictate the pace of the game.
While the pre-season is a time for experimentation, the performance against AC Milan highlights the need for further fine-tuning before the start of the La Liga season. With the arrival of new players like Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler, Ancelotti will be looking to instill a new level of tactical fluidity and attacking threat.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss, the pre-season tour was a valuable experience for Real Madrid. The team played against strong opponents, showcasing their strengths and identifying areas for improvement. With the season opener just around the corner, Ancelotti and his squad will be focused on building momentum and preparing for a challenging campaign ahead.