Fabregas Sparks Como’s Rise to Fifth in Serie A with Easy Away Victory Over Genoa

The visitors had struggled in their preceding three fixtures, failing to secure a win (D1, L2), which had seen them relinquish their place in the UEFA Champions League qualification zone.

However, a much-needed boost to their confidence came early on as Anastasios Douvikas converted a powerful header in the 10th minute, courtesy of Lucas Da Cunha’s exquisite cross, providing a crucial early lead.

Cesc Fabregas’s team nearly doubled their advantage in the 23rd minute when Serie A MVP contender Nico Paz skillfully evaded two defenders to create space for a shot just outside the box, only to see his effort skim just past the far post.

Paz’s frustration continued to mount shortly after the half-hour mark when his header seemed destined for the net but ricocheted off the post instead.

That sense of annoyance could have permeated the entire Como squad had Genoa—who surprisingly benched their top two scorers this season, Lorenzo Colombo and Ruslan Malinovskyi—equalised before the break.

Yet, goalkeeper Jean Butez had other ideas, pulling off a spectacular save to deny Sebastian Otoa’s header, preserving his clean sheet.

Fabregas’s side faced a setback during the break as Paz was forced off, replaced by Maxence Caqueret due to an apparent injury. This necessary alteration allowed Genoa to seize the initiative straight from the restart, with Mikael Egill Ellertsson attempting a long-range shot that flew wide.

The Rossoblu’s efforts didn’t relent, as Butez was again called into action, executing another impressive save to deny Morten Frendrup shortly after the hour mark.

Como, however, managed to find additional energy and they extended their lead against the run of play. Substitute Caqueret made an impact in the 68th minute, his deft flick-on allowing Assane Diao to nod the ball home from close range.

This victory could prove to be one of Como’s most pivotal of the season, particularly given their recent dip in form. For the time being, the European hopefuls have climbed above Roma into fifth place in the Serie A standings, now just two points adrift of fourth-placed Juventus.

On the other hand, Genoa appears set for a third consecutive lower-half finish since returning to the top flight, remaining in 14th position on the table.

For further statistics from the match, click here.