Como secures first Serie A victory in over two decades against Atalanta

In a historic showdown at the Gewiss Stadium, Cesc Fabregas’s Como secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Atalanta, marking their first Serie A win in over 20 years. 

The match showcased Como’s resilience, as they overturned the odds with three quick-fire goals in a thrilling 12-minute period, stunning the highly-rated Atalanta side.

Reflecting on the momentous achievement, Fabregas, who took over as Como’s head coach in July 2024, expressed his joy: “It feels amazing to lead this team to such a historic victory.”

This marks a milestone for Como in their return to Serie A after a 21-year absence.

“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.

Fabregas and Gasperini on the sideline during Como’s victory against Atalanta

Fabregas and Gasperini on the sideline during Como’s victory against Atalanta

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 an early setback, Como displayed remarkable determination to claim a stunning 3-2 win over Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium, securing their first Serie A victory in over two decades.

Como’s resilience began to shine through as they settled into the match, with Patrick Cutrone testing Atalanta’s goalkeeper, Marco Carnesecchi, twice, while Sergi Roberto came close to scoring, only to be denied by a superb save.

Como ended the first half with five shots on target, showing their intent and confidence.

Just 20 seconds into the second half, Como leveled the score through Gabriel Strefezza, who fired a powerful shot past Carnesecchi after a clever flick from Roberto.

In the 52nd minute, a long-range strike from Nico Paz deflected off Sead Kolasinac, resulting in an own goal that gave Como the lead. Moments later, Paz set up Alieu Fadera, who calmly extended the advantage to 3-1.

Atalanta fought back and earned a penalty in the seventh minute of stoppage time, which Ademola Lookman converted to make it 3-2. However, Como held on to secure a memorable victory, marking their return to Italy’s top flight in style.

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, Newss360 Nigeria 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.