Liverpool vs AC Milan: Mohamed Salah Inspires 3-1 Comeback Win in Pre-Season Clash

Date/Location: July 26, 2025 – Chicago, USA

Mohamed Salah was the star of the show as Liverpool came from behind to secure an impressive 3-1 pre-season victory over historic rivals AC Milan in Chicago. The Liverpool vs AC Milan friendly, a headline fixture of the clubs’ US tours, saw the Italian side take an early lead before a Salah-inspired comeback in the second half gave the Premier League giants a deserved win and a major boost to their preparations for the new season.

1. Detailed Overview of a Classic European Friendly

The match, played in front of a packed Soldier Field, provided excellent entertainment and crucial fitness for both squads.

• Historical Context: Any meeting between Liverpool and AC Milan evokes memories of two of the most dramatic Champions League finals in history (2005 and 2007). While this was a friendly, the historical weight of the fixture added an extra layer of intensity.
• How the Match Unfolded:
  • First Half: AC Milan started brightly and took the lead through a well-worked goal from striker Rafael Leão. Liverpool controlled possession but struggled to find a finishing touch.
  • Second Half: Liverpool manager Arne Slot made several changes, and his team came out with renewed energy. Mohamed Salah equalized with a clinical finish, then provided a brilliant assist for a goal by youngster Kaide Gordon, before Darwin Núñez sealed the 3-1 win late on.
• Key Players:
  • Mohamed Salah (LFC): The Man of the Match with a goal and an assist.
  • Kaide Gordon (LFC): The young winger made a huge impression, scoring the go-ahead goal.
  • Rafael Leão (ACM): The most dangerous player for Milan, scoring their only goal.

2. Tactical Analysis of the Liverpool vs AC Milan Encounter

For the managers, this game was a crucial test of tactics and player fitness ahead of the competitive season.

• Liverpool’s High-Intensity Press: Even in pre-season, Liverpool showcased their trademark high-energy pressing game. In the second half, this intensity overwhelmed Milan’s midfield, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas which led directly to two of their goals.
• Milan’s Counter-Attacking Threat: AC Milan’s game plan was clear: absorb pressure and use the pace of Rafael Leão on the counter-attack. This worked perfectly for their opening goal but became less effective as their players tired in the second half.
• The Impact of Substitutions: This was a classic pre-season tale of two halves. The wholesale substitutions made by both teams at halftime completely changed the game’s dynamic. Liverpool’s fresh legs and the introduction of their younger, hungrier players proved to be the decisive factor.

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3. Evidence-Based Support: Key Moments and Broadcast Details

The match was a major global broadcast event, showcasing the worldwide appeal of both clubs.

• The Decisive Moment: The key turning point was Salah’s equalizer early in the second half. It immediately erased Milan’s lead and shifted the psychological momentum firmly in Liverpool’s favor.
• How to Watch: As advertised by the clubs and sports media, the match was broadcast globally, highlighting its importance.
  • Official Club Channels: The match was streamed live on LFC TV.
  • In the USA: The game was available for viewers on platforms covered by NBC Sports.
  • Source: LiverpoolFC.com & NBC Sports

Conclusion: A Promising Sign for Liverpool’s New Season

While pre-season results should always be viewed with caution, this was a highly encouraging performance from Liverpool. Their ability to come from behind and dominate a top-quality opponent like AC Milan is a promising sign for the season ahead. For AC Milan, the first-half performance showed their potential, but the second-half collapse highlights the need to build squad depth and stamina.

Accountability Summary:

• Liverpool’s Senior Players, like Mohamed Salah, are being praised for setting a high standard and leading the team’s comeback.
• AC Milan’s Defense is accountable for the errors and lack of organization that allowed Liverpool to score three unanswered goals in the second half.

Urgent Actions Needed (Looking Ahead):

1. For Liverpool: The manager will be delighted with the fitness levels and the impact of the young players. The next step is to continue integrating key players and refining tactical patterns in their remaining friendlies.
2. For AC Milan: They need to work on maintaining their defensive shape and concentration for a full 90 minutes. Building the fitness of their core players will be the top priority.