Syed Talib
Updated on: October 14, 2024 6:41 am GMT
After more than two decades in football purgatory, Como has finally returned to the winner’s circle in Serie A. Under the guidance of Cesc Fabregas, the team staged an impressive comeback to defeat Atalanta 3-2 at the Gewiss Stadium, marking their first win in Italy’s top division since 2003.
A Historic Win for Como
Como’s victory on Tuesday not only represents a significant achievement for the club but also underscores the remarkable progress of its players and coaching staff. Cesc Fabregas, who transitioned from a celebrated player to coach, has been pivotal in revitalizing the team. The victory at Atalanta signals not just a return to form but a possible turning point in Como’s season.
- First Serie A win in 21 years: Como last celebrated a victory in the top division in May 2003.
- Fabregas’ impact: The former Barcelona and Arsenal star is proving his mettle as a coach.
- Impressive goals: Goals from Gabriel Strefezza, Nico Paz (own goal), and Alieu Fadera showcased Como’s attacking prowess.
A Match Full of Action
The match, initially set for Monday, faced delays due to heavy rain that left the pitch waterlogged. Ultimately, it was rescheduled for Tuesday, and both teams stuck with their original line-ups. The game kicked off with Atalanta applying early pressure.
Atalanta took the lead in the 18th minute when Davide Zappacosta found the net with a well-timed half-volley after a cleared corner. The home team appeared to be in control, but Como refused to back down.
Turning the Tables
The momentum shifted dramatically within the opening moments of the second half. Just 20 seconds in, Como equalized thanks to a stunning effort from Gabriel Strefezza. His powerful shot sent a message that Como was determined to fight for every point.
- 46’ – Strefezza’s equalizer: A well-placed shot into the far corner of the net.
- 52’ – Own goal by Kolasinac: A deflected shot from Nico Paz led to an unexpected own goal, putting Como in the lead.
- 54’ – Fadera’s finesse: Alieu Fadera scored shortly after, extending Como’s lead to 3-1.
Como displayed exceptional unity and defensive resilience as they held on to their lead. Despite Atalanta’s attempts to regain control of the match, Como defended admirably.
Drama Until the End
As the match neared its conclusion, Atalanta escalated their efforts to equalize. In injury time, with the clock running down, Atalanta was granted a penalty after a foul inside the box. Ademola Lookman, who had come on as a substitute, stepped up and converted the penalty in a tense moment.
- 90+9’ – Lookman’s penalty: The striker scored with a shot straight down the middle, ensuring a thrilling finish but not enough to salvage a point for Atalanta.
The final whistle confirmed Como’s stunning victory, sending their supporters into jubilation.
Post-Match Reflections
Fabregas reflected on the game, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication. “This win is a testament to the players’ commitment,” he stated, encapsulating the spirit that drove Como to their first Serie A victory in over two decades.
Conversely, Atalanta’s coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, expressed disappointment in his team’s inability to maintain their early advantage. “We need to learn from this and come back stronger,” he emphasized, urging a swift return to form for his squad.
Looking Ahead
With this crucial win, Como is poised to build on their success. The confidence gained from defeating a formidable opponent like Atalanta could serve as a springboard for the remainder of the season.
- Next Match: Como will focus on upcoming fixtures, looking to turn this victory into a winning streak.
- Fan Support: The result has invigorated the fanbase, with increased expectations for the team’s performance in the next round of matches.
While the journey ahead remains long, this landmark victory injects hope and excitement into Como’s campaign and can inspire the team moving forward. Football fans are now watching closely, curious to see how Fabregas continues to shape Como into a competitive force in Serie A.
Conclusion
Como’s win against Atalanta is a big moment for the team, and it shows how great Cesc Fabregas’s leadership has been. Now that they are celebrating their first Serie A victory in a long time, everyone is excited to keep this energy going in the next games. For the fans and players, this win means more than just earning three points; it’s a sign of their determination and a reason to feel hopeful about their future in Serie A.
