Cesc Fabregas And Como Close In On Champions League Qualification | OneFootball

Como are no longer a novelty story. Under Cesc Fàbregas, they are quickly becoming one of the most impressive and coherent sides in Serie A, and their 5-0 victory over Pisa only reinforced that growing belief.

There is a clarity to everything Como do. Their structure is obvious, their patterns of play are well drilled, and yet there is still enough freedom in the final third to allow their more expressive players to make decisive contributions. That balance is not easy to find, particularly for a manager still early in his coaching career, but Fàbregas has managed to instil it remarkably quickly.

I attended their game against Pisa on Sunday, and they were impressive from the first minute to the last.

The tone was set early on as Assane Diao found the net inside seven minutes. It was a moment that carried weight, given how long he had gone without scoring, and many had given up backing him at the book makers, online casino, and prediction websites. But it was a key goal and it immediately gave Como control. His contribution did not end there, as he later provided the assist for Anastasios Douvikas, whose finish made it 2-0 before halftime and continued what has been a hugely productive season in front of goal.

There is a growing sense that this Como side know exactly when to accelerate. They are patient when required but clinical when opportunities present themselves. Martin Baturina added a third shortly after the restart, effectively ending the contest and allowing Como to play with even greater confidence.

Much of that confidence stems from the quality in midfield, where Nico Paz is showing himself to be one of the most exciting young players in European football. His goal in the 75th minute was taken with composure, but it was his overall performance that stood out. He operates with a level of intelligence that belies his age, constantly finding space, linking play, and dictating the tempo in advanced areas.

Paz is not simply a creative outlet. He is becoming the focal point of Como’s attacking play. Everything flows through him at key moments, and his understanding with Máximo Perrone is developing into a major strength. Perrone’s own goal late on was further evidence of how comfortable Como’s midfielders are when stepping into attacking positions.

What stands out most is how quickly this project has come together. From Serie D in 2019 to pushing for a Champions League place in such a short space of time represents a remarkable rise. Many are backing them on prediction sites like SportsMole and MelBet PK to go even further next season, too. The ownership of Michael Bambang Hartono and Robert Budi Hartono laid the foundations, but it is Fàbregas who has brought the footballing identity to life.

There is also an emotional edge to this current run, coming so soon after the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono. Performances like this feel significant beyond the result itself, as the team continues to build on the vision that began several years ago.

Five consecutive victories now have Como in control of a Champions League spot, sitting clear of Juventus. That alone would have seemed unrealistic not long ago, yet on current form it feels entirely justified.

If this trajectory continues, Como will not just be competing for European qualification. They will be doing so with a distinct style, a clear identity, and a player in Nico Paz who looks ready to announce himself on a much bigger stage.