On a lively Sunday afternoon at the Arena Civica in Milan, Como Women secured third place in The Women’s Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid. The match, played on August 17, 2025, was a showcase of grit, tactical discipline, and a dash of individual brilliance—qualities that have quickly come to define this ambitious Italian side.
All eyes were on Alisha Lehmann, Como’s marquee summer signing, who played a pivotal role in her team’s triumph. Having only joined Como from Juventus earlier this month, the Swiss international was thrust straight into the starting lineup by coach Stefano Sottili. Lehmann, known for her pace and flair, featured for 88 minutes before making way for Fortesa Berisha late in the contest. Her presence on the pitch was unmistakable, and her influence was felt throughout the encounter.
The decisive moment arrived in the 54th minute. Italian midfielder Nadine Nischler, ever the creative spark, received the ball on the edge of the box. With a deft touch and a quick glance at goal, Nischler curled a stunning shot past the Atletico keeper, sending the Como faithful into raptures. It was the only goal of the game, but it was enough to seal the club’s place on the podium in this prestigious preseason tournament.
"It’s an independent club, fully focused on women’s football – and that really matters to me," Lehmann told The Guardian upon her arrival at Como. The 26-year-old, who previously starred for Aston Villa and Everton, has wasted no time embracing her new environment. "From the start, I could see this wasn’t just another team; it’s a project with real purpose and vision. [So] signing with FC Como Women just felt right."
Lehmann’s journey to Como has been a whirlwind. After spending just one season at Juventus, she decided to take on a fresh challenge with a club that, in her words, is "in a moment where women’s football can define itself on its own terms, and independent clubs like Como Women have the opportunity in leading the movement. [It] isn’t just about winning matches. It’s about building something that lasts. This is the first time I’ve joined an independent club. That was a big part of my decision. It shows there is a different way of doing things."
Her competitive debut for Como came just days before the third-place playoff, in the semi-finals of The Women’s Cup against her former club Juventus. It was a bittersweet occasion for the Swiss winger, as Como fell 2-0 to the Turin giants, who ultimately advanced to the final. Despite the defeat, Lehmann’s performance drew plaudits, and her determination to help her new team bounce back was evident from the outset of the third-place match.
The win over Atletico Madrid was not just a testament to Como’s growing cohesion but also a symbolic passing of the torch for Lehmann, who has quickly become a central figure in the squad. After the final whistle, the organisers of The Women’s Cup presented Lehmann with a special portrait—an unusual but heartfelt gesture in recognition of her impact. The Swiss star proudly displayed the portrait on her Instagram story, sharing the moment with her fans worldwide.
Lehmann’s integration into the Como setup has been seamless. Coach Stefano Sottili wasted little time in making her a key part of his tactical plans. "She brings experience, quality, and leadership to our group," Sottili reportedly said in the lead-up to the tournament. "Her mentality is exactly what we need as we look to build something special here."
Como’s victory over Atletico Madrid capped off a promising preseason campaign. The Women’s Cup, an annual tournament featuring some of Europe’s top clubs, provided a valuable opportunity for teams to test themselves ahead of the new domestic season. For Como, the third-place finish is a clear signal of intent as they prepare for their Serie A Femminile opener against Lazio on October 5, 2025.
The excitement building around the club is palpable. Lehmann’s arrival has generated a buzz not just among supporters but across Italian women’s football as a whole. Her decision to join an independent, "female-first" club has been widely praised by pundits and players alike. It’s a move that speaks to the changing landscape of the women’s game, where ambition and identity are becoming as important as results on the pitch.
For Nadine Nischler, the match-winning hero, the goal against Atletico Madrid was another highlight in a burgeoning career. Her ability to deliver in crucial moments has made her a fan favorite, and her partnership with Lehmann already shows signs of promise. With Fortesa Berisha and the rest of the squad providing depth and competition, Como look poised to make waves in the upcoming Serie A campaign.
The club’s focus on building a sustainable, player-centered culture has not gone unnoticed. Lehmann’s comments about the club’s ethos resonate with a growing movement in women’s football, one that prioritizes long-term growth and empowerment over short-term gains. "We’re in a moment where women’s football can define itself on its own terms," Lehmann emphasized, highlighting the importance of independent clubs in shaping the future of the sport.
As the countdown to the new season begins, Como’s supporters have every reason to be optimistic. The team’s performance in The Women’s Cup, capped by a memorable win over a strong Atletico Madrid side, has set the tone for what could be a breakthrough year. With Lehmann leading the charge and a talented squad behind her, the stage is set for an exciting campaign.
While the dust settles on their preseason exploits, all eyes now turn to October 5, when Como will face Lazio in their Serie A Femminile opener. For Lehmann and her teammates, the hard work is just beginning. But if recent performances are any indication, this is a team ready to seize the moment and make its mark on Italian football.
For now, Como can savor their third-place finish and the sense of momentum building within the club. Lehmann’s special portrait will serve as a reminder of a job well done—and perhaps, a sign of even greater things to come.
