Arsenal suffers defeat against Hibernian in a pre-season friendly match

Arsenal suffered a 2-1 defeat to Hibernian.

Arsenal lost 2-1 to Hibernian at Easter Road as their preseason preparations got off to a losing start.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Willian were among the Gunners’ starters, but Hibs were ahead in the 21st minute as Martin Boyle capitalized on Arthur Okonkwo’s lapse in concentration.

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In the second half, Nicolas Pepe and Thomas Partey both came close to equalizing, but Hibs capitalized on more Arsenal defensive mistakes as Daniel Mackay added a second goal. The Gunners missed a glaring penalty opportunity as Kevin Dabrowski brilliantly saved Pepe’s effort, but Emile Smith Rowe scored when Hector Bellerin’s cross was turned in.

Pre-season action continues for Arsenal on Saturday with a match against Scottish champions Rangers (kick-off 2 pm UK time), while Hibernian return to action on Friday against Raith Rovers (kick-off 7:30 pm UK time).

In an early period of the game, Nketiah was given a chance to impress but the England U21 striker fired wide of the target against former Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Macey. The hosts were under constant pressure from Arsenal and Macey had to react quickly to deny Reiss Nelson before Nketiah headed yet another chance wide.

Hibernian survived an Arsenal equalizer when Partey’s powerful free-kick beat Dabrowski but rattled the post as the ball went out. A late goal from Smith Rowe, however, was just a consolation for the visitors.