A thrilling pre-season friendly between FC Zurich Frauen and AC Milan Women saw the Italian side edge a five-goal spectacle 3–2 on 25 July 2026. The match, played at a neutral venue, was a high-quality contest that offered both sides valuable preparation ahead of their respective domestic seasons.

Match Summary

FC Zurich Frauen started strongly and took an early lead, but AC Milan Women responded with three goals before half-time. The Swiss side pulled one back early in the second half but could not find an equaliser, leaving the Rossonere to claim a hard-fought victory.

Key Moments

• 12' Goal – Zurich: A corner was met by defender Lara Keller, who headed home from six yards.
• 22' Equaliser – Milan: Winger Giulia Martini waltzed past two defenders and fired into the top corner.
• 30' Goal – Milan: A deflected strike from midfielder Valentina Bergamaschi gave Milan the lead.
• 41' Goal – Milan: Striker Sofia Cantore nodded in a cross from the right to make it 3–1.
• 52' Goal – Zurich: Substitute forward Nicole Riesen halved the deficit with a composed finish.
• Remainder: Zurich pushed for an equaliser but Milan's defence held firm, with goalkeeper Laura Giuliani making two crucial saves.

Tactical Story

FC Zurich Frauen pressed high in a 4-3-3, forcing Milan into early errors. However, once Milan settled, they exploited space behind Zurich's full-backs with quick switches of play. Milan's midfield trio of Bergamaschi, Manuela Cella, and Alice Parisi controlled the central area after the 25th minute, turning the tide.

Standout Performers

AC Milan's Sofia Cantore was a constant threat, scoring one and assisting another. For Zurich, left-back Alina Frei was excellent going forward, providing the cross for the second goal, but her defensive lapses were costly.

Manager's View

Milan coach remarked: "It was a real test. Zurich made us work hard, but I'm pleased with how we responded to going behind and then managed the game after taking the lead." Zurich's boss noted: "We have positives to take, especially the fightback in the second half. We need to cut out the defensive errors."

The 3–2 scoreline reflected an entertaining contest and gave both teams useful data points as they fine-tune their systems for the new season.