Juventus defeated AC Milan 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw during their pre-season friendly in Carson, California, on Thursday.
The match took place at Dignity Health Sports Park, the home stadium of Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Galaxy. The game was quite engaging until numerous substitutions were made by both teams, leading to a less exciting finish.
AC Milan took the lead in the 23rd minute when German defender Malick Thiaw headed in a free-kick delivered by Theo Hernandez from deep within the box. Juventus equalized ten minutes later when Danilo scored amidst a scramble in front of the goal.
In the 39th minute, Milan regained the lead as Thiaw’s header from a Christian Pulisic corner found Olivier Giroud, who executed a well-taken volley while turning.
Juventus responded once more when Federico Chiesa’s free-kick into the box was deflected by Daniele Rugani before slightly grazing Giroud on its way into the net.
The game lost its intensity as both teams made a series of substitutions, bringing on mostly reserve and youth players.
The outcome of the match was decided by a penalty shootout, during which Juventus’ backup goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio made three crucial saves to secure the victory for Massimiliano Allegri’s team.
As part of the summer ‘Soccer Champions Tour,’ both teams will face top Spanish clubs in their upcoming matches. Milan will play against Barcelona in Las Vegas on Tuesday, and Juventus will take on Real Madrid in Orlando on Wednesday.