In a memorable pre-season friendly, Arsenal showed resilience and skill, overcoming Barcelona 5-3.
The Gunners twice came from behind, delivering a striking performance that hints at an exciting season ahead.
- Arsenal showed resilience, twice overcoming a lead by Barcelona, with goals from Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Fabio Vieira.
- Barcelona led twice with goals from Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha.
- Post-match, Mikel Arteta praised his squad’s intensity and performance, expressing his satisfaction with the team’s current composition.
A sold-out crowd at SoFi Stadium witnessed Arsenal come from behind twice to triumph over Barcelona and conclude their U.S. summer tour on a high note.
The Gunners ended the thrilling match with a 5-3 victory, marking a winning finish to the tour.
Barcelona took the lead early on, with Robert Lewandowski capitalising on their first attack of the game. An initial save from Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale left Lewandowski with the opportunity to net the rebound.
However, this lead was short-lived.
Within five minutes, Bukayo Saka responded for Arsenal. Saka intercepted a pass intended for Barcelona’s Andreas Christensen, displayed excellent composure, and finished well inside the near post, drawing the score level.
The first half was an eventful one. Arsenal earned a penalty when Leandro Trossard’s shot was obstructed by a Barcelona arm in the box. Saka stepped up to the spot but dragged his kick wide of the goalpost.
Seizing on this missed opportunity, Barcelona retook the lead late in the first half. A contentious free-kick was awarded to Barcelona out wide, and Raphinha capitalised, with his shot deflecting off the wall and into the far post.
Despite being on the receiving end of several physical challenges, Arsenal’s attacking rhythm remained intact. With Saka’s continued involvement, Arsenal drew level again.
After outmanoeuvring and outmuscling Marcos Alonso, Saka sent a cross to the far post. Martin Odegaard’s header was directed home by Kai Havertz, leaving the scores level at half-time.
Entering the second half, Barcelona decided to change all 11 players, while Mikel Arteta chose to introduce Emile Smith Rowe in place of Havertz. Arsenal continued to dictate the game with Gabriel Jesus proving instrumental in setting up several opportunities.
The breakthrough came when Jesus excellently chested down a long pass, laying the ball off for Trossard. Trossard made no mistake, rifling a left-footed shot inside the corner from just inside the area. The goal reflected Arsenal’s dominance and put them in the driving seat.
Despite Barcelona striking the post through Ousmane Dembele, Arsenal continued to press. Trossard’s second goal came off a cross from Kieran Tierney, a recent addition to the pitch. The Belgian met Tierney’s cross first time and thundered the ball past Barcelona’s goalkeeper, Inaki Pena.
While Barcelona managed to pull one back late through Ferran Torres, who pounced on a slip by Rob Holding, Arsenal had the final say.
Fabio Vieira curved a beautiful shot home from outside the area, sealing a resounding victory for the Gunners and ensuring the scoreline reflected their dominance.
With the U.S. summer tour concluded, the team immediately flew back to London.
Arsenal’s next challenge is Monaco at home in the Emirates Cup on Wednesday night, followed by the Community Shield against Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday.
The Gunners then kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Nottingham Forest the following weekend.