Como
Como announced their arrival on the Champions League stage in devastating fashion, thrashing Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig 4-1 in a pulsating League Stage opener at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
Como’s Dream Start
The hosts flew out of the traps, capitalising on early Leipzig nerves. Willi Orbán’s second-minute yellow card set the tone for a frantic opening, and Como struck first in the 15th minute. Martin Baturina, a constant menace, drove forward and unleashed an unstoppable strike past Maarten Vandevoordt to send the partisan crowd into delirium.
Leipzig Unravel
Christopher Nkunku’s 24th-minute yellow summed up Leipzig’s frustrations as they struggled to contain Como’s intensity. The hosts doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Baturina turned provider, teeing up Anastasios Douvikas to slot home from close range. The German side’s first-half misery was compounded by a whopping nine fouls as their composure disintegrated.
Diao Dances Through
With Leipzig needing a response after the break, another Como sucker punch arrived in the 54th minute. Assane Diao Diaoune embarked on a mesmerising run, exchanging passes with Nico Paz before coolly finishing to make it 3-0 and spark wild celebrations in the stands.
Late Drama
Andrija Maksimović’s 58th-minute goal briefly offered Leipzig hope, but Maximo Perrone’s stoppage-time strike capped a perfect evening for Como. The hosts’ 49% possession and six shots on target underscored their clinical efficiency against their more fancied opponents.
What Next?
This historic victory marks a dream European debut for Cesc Fàbregas’ side, who now sit second in League Group D. Leipzig, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to recover from this damaging defeat. Como’s next Champions League assignment? A trip to French champions Lyon. On this evidence, they’ll fear nobody.
Key Moments
15′ ⚽ Como — Martin Baturina
38′ ⚽ Como — Anastasios Douvikas (assist: Martin Baturina)
54′ ⚽ Como — Assane Diao Diaoune (assist: Nico Paz)
58′ ⚽ RB Leipzig — Andrija Maksimović (assist: Christopher Nkunku)
