In a historic match at the Gewiss Stadium, Cesc Fabregas’s Como triumphed over Atalanta 3-2, marking their first Serie A victory over two decades.
The game showcased Como’s resilience and attacking prowess, with three goals scored in a thrilling 12-minute span that turned the tide against a formidable Atalanta side.
“It feels amazing to lead this team to such a historic victory,” Fabregas remarked after the match on Tuesday night, reflecting on the win’s significance for the club.
Fabregas was confirmed in July 2024 as Como coach ahead of their first Serie A season in 21 years.
“Como 1907 is delighted to confirm that Cesc Fabregas will become head coach of the men’s team on a four-year contract,” said Como in a statement.
The former Spain midfielder was assistant to Osian Roberts as Como won automatic promotion to the top flight last season
Originally set to kick off on Monday evening, the match faced delays due to torrential rain that plagued the Bergamo region, forcing officials to postpone it until Tuesday.
Both coaches, Gian Piero Gasperini and Fabregas, had announced their starting lineups the previous night but opted to stick with their selections despite the schedule change.
Atalanta started the game brightly, with Mateo Retegui testing Como goalkeeper Emil Audero early on.
However, it was Zappacosta who broke the deadlock in the 18th minute.
After a corner taken by Raoul Bellanova was cleared, Zappacosta found space at the edge of the box and unleashed an improvised half-volley that curled into the near corner, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Como response
Despite the setback, Como responded with determination. They began to find their rhythm and create opportunities, with Marco Carnesecchi forced into action to deny a couple of efforts from Patrick Cutrone.
As the first half progressed, Sergi Roberto also came close, directing a shot towards the bottom corner that was expertly saved.
Como ended the first half with five shots, three of which were on target, compared to Atalanta’s two. This statistic indicated their growing confidence and willingness to push forward, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.
The visitors came out with renewed energy after the break, levelling the score within just 20 seconds. A brilliant flick from Sergi Roberto at the edge of the box found Gabriel Strefezza, who hammered a powerful shot past Carnesecchi, igniting Como’s hopes.
Como took the lead in the 52nd minute when a long-range effort from Nico Paz took a significant deflection off Sead Kolasinac, with the ball veering off course and finding the back of the net, marking it as an own goal for the former Arsenal defender.
The away side was in full control just two minutes later when Paz, once again, provided the assist with a perfectly weighted ball over the top. Alieu Fadera skillfully took the pass in his stride and calmly bent his shot into the net, extending Como’s lead to 3-1.
Despite trailing, Atalanta refused to back down and maintained pressure, frequently pushing into Como’s half. Their persistence paid off late in the game when a crucial moment occurred in the seventh minute of injury time.
Debutant Vanja Vlahovic, who had recently entered the fray, was brought down in the penalty area, prompting the referee to award a spot-kick.
Ademola Lookman, who had also come off the bench, stepped up to take the penalty. With the game on the line, he coolly struck the ball down the middle, reducing Como’s lead to 3-2. However, it proved to be too little, too late, as the final whistle blew shortly after, sealing a memorable victory for Como.
Full-time: Atalanta 2-3 Como
Goals:
Zappacosta (A) 18′
Strefezza (C) 46′
Kolasinac OG (C) 52′
Fadera (C) 54′
Lookman (A) 90+9′
This victory highlights Como’s potential under Fabregas’s management and serves as a significant milestone for a club that has faced challenges in recent years.
After five games in the 2024/25 season, PUNCH Online reports that Atalanta sits 12th in the 20-team table with six points, level with four other clubs.
Meanwhile, Como is in 15th place with five points, tied with three other teams.
The passionate display from Como and their tactical execution throughout the match will provide a boost as they aim for a successful Serie A campaign.