AC Milan emerged victorious over Barcelona in a thrilling penalty shootout on Tuesday night at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. The preseason friendly ended in a 2-2 draw after regular time, leading to the shootout that ultimately favored Milan as both teams prepare for their respective league campaigns, set to kick off in just a few weeks.
Robert Lewandowski was the standout for Barcelona, scoring twice to level the match after Milan initially took control. Christian Pulisic played a pivotal role for Milan, assisting on Luka Jovic’s opening goal and later scoring one himself with a sharp shot from a challenging angle that doubled Milan's lead.
Milan appeared in command early, but Lewandowski capitalized on a defensive lapse just before halftime, reducing Milan’s advantage with a well-placed shot. He then equalized for Barcelona before the hour mark, finishing a delicate cross from Pau Victor into an open net.
The match remained tied at 2-2 as it headed into the shootout. Milan maintained composure under pressure, leading 4-3 before their goalkeeper, Lorenzo Torriani, made a decisive save on Barcelona's sixth attempt, securing the win.
This match marked the end of both teams’ U.S. tours. Milan now turns its attention to their Serie A opener against Torino on August 17. Barcelona will first face AS Monaco in the Trofeo Joan Gamper on August 12, before kicking off their La Liga campaign under new manager Hansi Flick against Valencia.
