Myles Lewis-Skelly opened the scoring for the Gunners before Martin Baturina equalized for Como just before half-time.
Bruno Guimaraes Debuts After Half-Time Introduction
Bruno Guimaraes made his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt after being introduced at half-time during the friendly match, according to match reports. The £75m signing received a warm welcome from the home supporters after arriving from Newcastle. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta noted in his post-match press conference that the midfielder “only had three training sessions, but he looked good” and “was really pushing to play some minutes today.” Guimaraes subsequently converted his spot-kick during the post-match penalty shoot-out, which Arsenal won 4-3.
Myles Lewis-Skelly Scores Amid Transfer Speculation
Myles Lewis-Skelly found the back of the net in the 33rd minute, capitalizing on a poor pass out from Como goalkeeper Jean Butez to stroke home the opening goal. According to uk.sports.yahoo.com, the strike arrived amidst swirling transfer rumours linking him with potential moves to Chelsea and Manchester United. After scoring, Lewis-Skelly celebrated by making a heart gesture to all four stands and beating the badge on his chest. Como head coach Cesc Fabregas later praised the club’s academy production, noting that “Hale End does an amazing job.”
Did you know?
Myles Lewis-Skelly has represented Arsenal since he was eight years old, progressing through the Hale End academy before breaking into the senior setup.
Marli Salmon Shines in Defense Alongside Max Dowman
Sixteen-year-old defender Marli Salmon delivered an outstanding performance at centre-back, earning a standing ovation from the crowd before coming off in the 88th minute. According to match statistics, Salmon won nine of his 13 duels—the most of any player on either side—and completed 42 of his 43 passes. Mikel Arteta described his display as “exceptional,” while Cesc Fabregas marvelled at the impact made by Salmon and fellow 16-year-old Max Dowman.
How the Pre-Season Fixture Unfolded
Arsenal controlled large periods of the first half, keeping Como pinned with a high press that forced goalkeeper Jean Butez into several errors. Gabriel Jesus hit the post early in the match, while Gabriel Martinelli also missed presentable opportunities. Just before the interval, Como struck back when Croatia star Martin Baturina navigated past Theo Julienne and Max Dowman before firing an emphatic finish past goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Arteta introduced several substitutes at the break, including Martin Odegaard and Viktor Gyokeres, but neither side found a winning goal in open play, sending the match straight to penalties where David Raya made crucial saves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between Arsenal and Como?
The match finished 1-1 after regular time, with Arsenal winning the subsequent penalty shoot-out 4-3.
Who scored Arsenal’s goals during the match?
Myles Lewis-Skelly scored Arsenal’s lone goal in open play during the first half.
When is Arsenal’s next official fixture?
Arsenal face Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley on Sunday, August 16, before hosting their Premier League opening match against Coventry on Friday, August 21.
What are your thoughts on Bruno Guimaraes’ debut and the impressive performances from Arsenal’s young academy prospects? Let us know in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates.
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