The final rehearsal before the Super Cup: prediction for Arsenal vs Como
The clash between Arsenal and Como is set for August 12, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium in London. For the reigning Premier League champions, this is the last tune-up before the national Super Cup showdown with Manchester City, while Cesc Fàbregas’ side continues their preparations for their debut in the Champions League group stage.
Arsenal: time to bounce back after two defeats
Mikel Arteta’s squad enters this encounter after setbacks against Real Betis (1-3) and Borussia Dortmund. The Gunners have looked vulnerable at the back, partly due to the hangover from a grueling previous season and the late return of several players after the World Cup.
The major headline of the summer was the signing of Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle, and he could make his debut minutes for his new club against Como. William Saliba and Jurriën Timber are still recovering from injuries, while Christos Tzolis has been a bright spot up front, providing two assists in his last two outings.
Como: Fàbregas tests his squad against the elite
Como already hosted a home friendly tournament, finishing third after a 3-2 victory over Famalicão. Now, the Italians head to England for tests against Arsenal and Liverpool - fixtures that will truly reveal the team’s level ahead of the new campaign.
The squad has been significantly strengthened this summer: Nico Paz was bought from Real Madrid, Trevoh Chalobah arrived from Chelsea, and both Kaiky and Yan Couto are expected to bolster the defense. Fàbregas’ philosophy remains unchanged - dominant possession, quick passing, and high pressing - but implementing this style against Arsenal’s superior individual class will be a major challenge.
Match facts and head-to-heads
- Three of Arsenal’s last five matches have featured four or more goals.
- Four of Como’s last five games have also seen at least four goals scored.
- Both teams have scored and conceded in each of their last five matches.
Home class should prevail: prediction for Arsenal vs Como
Both teams love to control possession and press high, so expect a high-tempo contest. Como’s bold style can cause problems, but at the Emirates, maintaining the initiative against a more experienced and talented squad will be a tall order.
Arsenal needs to regain confidence after back-to-back defeats and approach the Super Cup in the right frame of mind. Home advantage and squad depth give the Gunners a clear edge, though their current defensive issues leave the visitors with a chance to find the net.
