Chukwueze Endrick GFXGetty/GOAL

Samuel Chukwueze and AC Milan spoil Endrick's debut! Winners and losers as Real Madrid fall to defeat in first pre-season friendly

On Wednesday night in Chicago, there were any number of stars that could have stolen the show. This was Real Madrid vs AC Milan, after all; two legendary clubs with so many big-ticket players... but which would step up?

Would it be Milan's U.S. men's national team stars? Would it be Real Madrid's fresh-faced Brazilian legend-in-the-making, Endric, who making his club debut? Would be be a veteran Ballon d'or winner Luka Modric?

Nope. In the end, the game's big moment came from a 17-year-old youngster and a back-up winger, although both will hope this performance helps them shed those titles and earn much more senior ones in the future.

Article continues below

Samuel Chukwueze scored the only goal in Milan's 1-0 win, leading the way for the Italian giants. The result wasn't totally unexpected as this was the Rossoneri's third pre-season game compared to Madrid's first and, from the start, it felt that way. Milan were the better of the two sides, earning their result.

Chukwueze wasn't the only one to shine, though. Milan youngster Matia Liberali is the one who teed him up, headlining what may just be a breakout performance. It could be argued that Liberali had the best game of all, despite his youth.

As for Madrid's young star, this wasn't the best day of Endrick's career. He had a few good moments, but also had a few tough ones, headlined by a series of fouls suffered. Bigger days are ahead for the Brazilian, particularly as he gets more comfortable with himself and his team-mates in these new surroundings.

The day belonged to Milan, though, and, having now topped Manchester City and Real Madrid in the space of a week, the Italian side is on the right path to start pre-season.

GOAL breaks down the winners & losers from Solider Field...