Trending
Como celebrated a historic Champions League debut with a commanding 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
Martin Baturina and Tasos Douvikas scored in the first half. Assane Diao and Maximo Perrone added two more after the break.
The result gave Como a dream start to their first European campaign in the club’s 119-year history.
Como needed only 15 minutes to open the scoring in front of around 11,000 home supporters.
Douvikas drove into the penalty area before cutting the ball back. Leipzig defender Ridle Baku failed to clear the danger.
Baturina recovered after slipping inside the box and fired the ball into the net. The Croatia international became Como’s first scorer in European competition.
Como continued to control the game and doubled their lead in the 38th minute.
This time, Baturina turned provider. He sent Douvikas through on goal, and the forward calmly beat Leipzig goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt.
Como entered half-time with a 2-0 advantage.
Cesc Fabregas’ side continued their attacking display after the break.
Senegal winger Assane Diao made it 3-0 when he finished from a tight angle. His effort went across Vandevoordt and left the goalkeeper with little chance.
Como then missed an opportunity to add a fourth when captain Lucas da Cunha failed to convert a clear chance.
US Lawmakers Push New AI Rules Over Safety Concerns
Leipzig eventually pulled one goal back.
Andrija Maksimovic struck first time from the edge of the penalty area to give the Bundesliga side a brief lift.
However, Como quickly restored their control.
Maximo Perrone scored in the 90th minute to complete a memorable 4-1 victory and send the home crowd into celebration.
Como’s rise has been one of the most remarkable stories in Italian football.
The club was bought by Indonesia’s Djarum Group in 2019. Since then, Como have climbed rapidly through the Italian league system.
The club went bankrupt twice during the past two decades. It then ended a 21-year wait to return to Serie A in 2024.
Como achieved that promotion after three promotions in six seasons.
Fabregas has played a central role in the transformation.
The former Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder began his coaching career with Como in Serie B in 2024. He later guided the club to fourth place in Serie A last season.
That finish secured Como’s place in the Champions League.
European football journalist Julien Laurens said Fabregas had helped take several players to another level. He also highlighted the strong relationship between the coach, squad and supporters.
Fabregas has also attracted interest from bigger clubs. Chelsea reportedly considered him as a possible replacement for Liam Rosenior during the summer.
However, the Spaniard stayed with Como for another season.
The Champions League victory gives Como a strong foundation for their European campaign.
The Italian side will travel to Feyenoord for their next European fixture on October 14.
RB Leipzig will look to respond when they host PSV Eindhoven on October 13.
Como’s historic debut has already given their supporters a night to remember. After waiting 119 years for European football, the club delivered a statement result on the biggest stage.
Copyright © 2026 99News. All Rights Reserved.
