Como manager Cesc Fabregas has reflected on his side’s historic 9-1 Champions League victory over Lens, a result that saw the Italian club etch its name into the competition’s record books. While expressing immense pride in his team’s performance, Fabregas admitted disappointment at conceding a goal during the dominant display.
A Night of Records for Como
The emphatic win against Lens marked several significant milestones. Como became the first Italian club ever to score nine goals in a Champions League fixture. Furthermore, the 9-1 scoreline represents the highest winning margin recorded in an away match in the competition’s history. The goal-fest saw seven different players find the net, including a memorable first competitive goal for teenage sensation Matteo Papaccioli, for whom Fabregas expressed particular happiness.
Fabregas described the evening as “unforgettable” for the club and its supporters, acknowledging that such a result is a “once in a lifetime” occurrence. Despite the overwhelming success, he stressed the importance of maintaining focus, stating, “It’s right that we enjoy this moment because the group deserves it, but football moves at a very fast pace.”
Champions League Journey and League Standing
This remarkable result further solidifies Como’s impressive debut season in the Champions League. The club has already secured notable 4-1 victories against RB Leipzig and Manchester United earlier in the campaign. Following the fourth round of fixtures, Como currently sit fourth in the Champions League league phase table with nine points, trailing only European giants PSG, Real Madrid, and Arsenal.
Fabregas views this historic win as “only the beginning” of Como’s journey in Europe. He highlighted the team’s adherence to their game plan, constant attacking intent, and respect for their opponents as key factors in their success. The manager also noted the team’s resilience, having bounced back strongly after their first Champions League defeat away to Feyenoord in October.
Focus Shifts to Serie A Challenge
With the Champions League triumph now archived, Fabregas has quickly turned his attention to Como’s next significant challenge: an away fixture against reigning Serie A champions Inter. Como are also currently fourth in the Serie A table, setting up a crucial encounter.
“I’ve already told the boys that we have to archive the Lens game and only think about Inter,” Fabregas stated, anticipating a physically and mentally demanding match at San Siro. He emphasised the need for thorough preparation to “show our true identity” against one of Italy’s top clubs.