Como have taken a significant step in their Serie A encounter against Fiorentina, securing a 2-1 lead at half-time thanks to a crucial goal from Nico Paz. The match, which kicked off at 14:00 UK time, has seen Como attempt to rediscover their form against a Fiorentina side reportedly revitalised by their returning coach.
Fiorentina-Como: First Half Drama
The opening half at Fiorentina’s home ground was packed with action, culminating in Paz’s decisive strike. Earlier in the game, Como’s Liberali scuffed a cross-shot, appearing to be struggling, before being substituted alongside Da Cunha for Ricci and Kambwala. Juventus loanee Nicolò Fagioli, playing for Como, tested the Fiorentina goalkeeper Butez with efforts from outside the area, including a snapshot that was palmed away.
Fiorentina also had their moments, with Dodo making a run down the right and pulling back from the by-line, but the Viola could not convert the chance. The home side expressed frustration with the refereeing decisions throughout the half. Como’s Njie came close to extending their lead, anticipating a cross from Brescianini but somehow turning it onto the upright from close range.
The breakthrough for Como came when Nico Paz capitalised on a loose ball. After Pedro Goncalves gave possession away, Paz delivered a slide-rule pass to Douvikas, whose angled drive squirmed between De Gea’s legs. Paz then followed up with a lob from midfield, spotting De Gea off his line, though that effort went wide. However, it was Paz who ultimately ensured Como’s half-time advantage, with DAZN Football confirming his goal secured the 2-1 lead.
Following the goal, Fiorentina pressed for an equaliser, leaving gaps at the back. Ndour’s finish was too weak to trouble Butez, and a Mastantuono effort was charged down. An Alex Jimenez roll across was smothered, and a subsequent Fiorentina corner to the back post found no takers. Fagioli then delivered an inspired ball over the top for Njie, who flicked it over the on-rushing Butez, only for it to hit the side-netting of an open goal. Kaiki was also introduced for Como, replacing Valle, following an earlier injury substitution for Chalobah.
Other Serie A Kick-offs
Elsewhere in Serie A, two other significant fixtures are taking place. Milan are hosting Atalanta, with that match kicking off at 17:00 UK time. Both teams entered the game following midweek Europa League victories, hoping to translate that form into their domestic campaign after some inconsistent results. Milan were looking to key players such as Goncalo Ramos, Christian Pulisic, and Luka Modric to get them back on track in Serie A, while Atalanta were relying on Charles De Ketelaere and Jonathan Rowe.
The final match of the day sees Juventus take on joint leaders Lazio, kicking off at 19:45 UK time. Lazio have been the surprise package of the season so far, and their visit to a troubled Juventus side promises another intriguing contest in the Italian top flight.