Como continued their impressive run in Serie A, securing a 2-0 victory over Sassuolo at home. A brace from Tasos Douvikas sealed the points for the Lariani, who were still buoyed by their recent 4-1 thrashing of Manchester United in the Champions League.
First Half Exchanges and Disallowed Goals
The match began with Como showing early intent, having the ball in the net after just seven minutes, but Lucas Da Cunha’s effort was ruled out for offside. Como continued to press, with Tasos Douvikas forcing a tricky save from Sassuolo goalkeeper Stefano Turati and also hitting the near post from a tight angle. Maxence Caqueret and Benjamin Dominguez also had attempts that failed to find the target.
Sassuolo, who had collected only one point from their previous three league matches, also had a goal disallowed just before the interval. Kieron Bowie was judged to be offside before setting up Darryl Bakola to score, ensuring the teams went into half-time level.
Fabregas’s Changes Spark Second Half
Como manager Cesc Fabregas opted for a triple substitution at the break, a tactical move that quickly paid dividends. Within three minutes of the restart, Como broke the deadlock. Maxence Caqueret won a tackle in midfield, sending Bruno Kaiki down the left flank, who then rolled the ball across for Douvikas to sweep home. Sassuolo players protested, believing Nemanja Matic was fouled in the build-up, but the referee allowed the goal to stand.
The hosts pressed for a second, with Jayden Addai forcing another difficult save from Turati, and Caqueret’s follow-up header being deflected wide. The warning was clear, and Como soon doubled their lead. Kaiki intercepted a pass in midfield and burst down the left once more, pulling the ball back from the by-line for Douvikas to slide in from ten yards and complete his brace.
Context and Outlook
Como could have extended their lead further, with Luis Milla prodding wide from 12 yards and Jacobo Ramon having a late chance blocked. Despite some squad rotation, Como demonstrated their strength, particularly after their significant European success.
For Sassuolo, the defeat highlights their ongoing struggles in the league. They were without several key players, including Jay Idzes, Fedde Leysen, Daniel Boloca, and Ismael Koné, though Cristian Volpato was returning to fitness. Como also had their own absentees, with Mattia Liberali joining Trevoh Chalobah, Assane Diao, and Jesus Rodriguez on the sidelines, while Moise Kean was back on the bench and Samuele Ricci made his first start.