Arsenal and Como played out an intriguing 1-1 draw in an International Club Friendly that took place at 02:30 on 13 August 2026. Arsenal, preparing for another demanding Premier League campaign, were expected to dominate against their Italian opponents, but Como proved stubborn opponents and showed why they have become one of the more interesting projects in European football under their ambitious ownership.

Match Summary

Arsenal controlled long stretches of the game with their trademark patient possession football. The breakthrough came before the break when Bukayo Saka cut inside from the right and curled a beautiful finish into the far corner, putting the Premier League side ahead. It was a moment of individual quality that briefly threatened to open the floodgates.

Como, however, refused to fold. The Serie A outfit kept their defensive shape solid and began to carry more menace on the counter as the second half progressed. Their persistence was rewarded when Nico Paz scored a well-taken equaliser, finishing from close range after a swift attacking move that caught Arsenal’s back line out of position.

Key Moments

• 23' – Arsenal strike first: Saka produced a trademark left-foot finish from the right channel to make it 1-0.
• 58' – Como respond: Nico Paz converted from a cutback to level the score.
• 89' – Late drama: Arsenal had the ball in the net from a corner, but the goal was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.

Tactical Story

Arsenal’s approach was typical of the modern side: controlled build-up, high full-back positioning, and a focus on creating overloads in the half-spaces. Their first goal came from exactly that pattern, with Saka finding room in the inside-right channel. Como, though, were well organised out of possession and rarely allowed Arsenal’s central players time to turn.

In the second half, Como sacrificed a little of their caution for more direct attacking intent. The equaliser came as a result of a quick transition, with the visitors releasing runners in behind before the ball was squared for a simple finish. It was a useful reminder of the patience and tactical discipline required in pre-season tests of this kind.

Standout Performances

Saka looked sharp throughout and took his goal with the confidence of a player at the peak of his powers. For Como, Nico Paz impressed with his intelligent movement between the lines, while the centre-back pairing handled Arsenal’s aerial threat with composure. Arsenal’s young substitutes also brought energy late on, even though they could not force a winning goal.

What It Means

For Arsenal, the draw continues a solid pre-season build-up and highlights the quality in the final third, even if more ruthlessness is still required. Como will see this as a highly encouraging result against elite opposition, proof that they can compete at a high tempo and earn results on the road. Both teams go away with valuable learning points as the new season edges closer.