Arsenal and Como Share Spoils in Balanced Pre-Season Friendly

Arsenal and Italian side Como played out a competitive 1-1 draw in their latest pre-season fixture on 13 August 2026, with both teams fielding strong squads as they fine-tune preparations for the upcoming season. The friendly, played at a neutral venue, gave Arsenal's revamped squad valuable minutes against well-organised Serie A opposition, while Como demonstrated that they are ready to make an impact in the new campaign.

The match was even for long periods, with Arsenal enjoying more possession but Como looking dangerous on the break. After a goalless opening half, the game opened up following the interval, with both goals arriving inside a ten-minute spell that brought the fixture to life.

Match Overview

Arsenal, eager to build momentum and test out new signings, started with a familiar back line and a rotating midfield. Como, known for their tactical discipline under their ambitious coaching staff, set out to frustrate the Premier League side and hit them on the counter. The approach worked nearly to perfection, as the Italian outfit stayed compact and made the pitch narrow for Arsenal's attackers.

With more than a month of pre-season behind them, both teams showed decent fitness levels, but the game was largely contested at a controlled pace. The real spark came after the hour mark when the deadlock was finally broken.

Key Moments

• Bright start by Arsenal: Bukayo Saka, or a similarly key attacking player in the current squad, tested the Como keeper inside the first ten minutes with a stinging drive from the edge of the box.
• Como's defensive block: The Serie A side produced a series of last-ditch tackles and blocks to keep Arsenal out during a sustained spell of pressure.
• Opening goal: Arsenal finally found a way through with a slick passing move, finished with composure from close range.
• Quick response: Como levelled with a well-taken goal on the break, catching Arsenal's high line flat-footed.
• Late save: The Arsenal goalkeeper made a crucial stop in injury time to preserve the draw.

Tactical Story

Arsenal looked comfortable in possession, building patiently through the thirds and using their full-backs to stretch Como's shape. The return of key midfielders enabled them to dominate territory, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances against a deep-set block. Como, in contrast, sat in a compact 4-4-2 shape and relied on quick transitions, with their wide players providing the main outlet.

When Arsenal scored, it looked as though they would push on and win the game comfortably. But Como reacted immediately, showing excellent character and executing a textbook counter-attacking move. That response changed the psychological momentum, and the final minutes were evenly balanced as both teams chased a winner.

Standout Players

For Arsenal, the young left-back caught the eye with his tireless running and delivery from wide areas. In midfield, the club's new number six showed assured passing and excellent positional sense. For Como, their veteran central midfielder ran the show in spells, while the striker who scored the equaliser gave Arsenal's centre-backs a difficult afternoon.

What It Means Going Forward

As a friendly, the result is far from the headline, but the performance offers signs for optimism. Arsenal will be pleased with their control and ball progression, though they may want to improve their finishing efficiency. Como will take confidence from matching a top European side, and their tactical discipline on the road bodes well for the Serie A campaign.

Both coaches are likely to use these final pre-season friendlies to finalise their starting elevens, and this contest gave them plenty of useful data. Supporters of both clubs can leave satisfied that the squad depth looks healthy, with fringe players stepping up to claim their place.