Como 1907 made an impressive statement on December 30, 2024, as they secured a solid 2-0 victory over Lecce at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia stadium. The match, part of the Italy - Serie A 2024-2025 season, was pivotal for both teams as they fight to distance themselves from the relegation battle.
The action picked up just three minutes after halftime when Como midfielder Nicolás Paz found the net, scoring the opening goal at the 48-minute mark. After receiving a precise assist from striker Patrick Cutrone near the edge of the penalty area, Paz unleashed a powerful left-footed shot, launching the ball off the left post and sending it crashing behind Lecce's goalkeeper, Wladimiro Falcone. It was a moment of redemption for Paz, who had earlier missed from the penalty spot, failing to convert during the first half.
Despite his early hiccup, Paz demonstrated remarkable persistence, earning the Man of the Match title for his performance, which included this decisive goal and multiple attempts on goal—seven shots challenging the opposition's defense.
Cutrone also played a key role, following up Paz's efforts by scoring the second goal for Como at the 79-minute mark. After receiving the ball back following another strong attacking play, he made the most of his opportunity, putting the game beyond Lecce's reach.
The match had started with the Como 1907 team, under the guidance of head coach Cesc Fàbregas, employing a 4-5-1 formation. Their lineup featured Pepe Reina as goalkeeper and solid defensive support from players like Ignace Van Der Brempt, Edoardo Goldaniga, Marc Kempf, and Alberto Moreno. Midfielders Lucas Da Cunha, Yannik Engelhardt, Gabriel Strefezza, and Alieu Fadera worked to connect the play, leading up to Cutrone's forward position.
Meanwhile, Lecce, managed by Marco Giampaolo, operated with their own 4-3-3 strategy. They utilized Wladimiro Falcone between the posts, with Patrick Dorgu, Federico Baschirotto, Gaby Jean, and Antonino Gallo defending. Their midfield of Lassana Coulibaly, Balthazar Pierret, and Hamza Rafia, along with forwards Santiago Pierotti, Nikola Krstovic, and Teté Morente pushed forward to challenge Como.
During the first half, Como was gifted the chance to gain the upper hand when the referee awarded them a penalty. Unfortunately for them, Paz's attempt was thwarted by Falcone, who reacted swiftly to deny the Argentine-born but Spanish-trained midfielder.
The first half displayed competitive football from both teams, but the deadlock promised to be broken after the interval, which it did with Paz’s goal. The shift infused Como’s lineup with confidence as they took control of the game. Shortly after his goal, Paz nearly assisted another score but saw Cutrone’s following effort ruled offside by the linesman.
Despite Lecce's attempts to return to the match, Como held their ground and then doubled their advantage through Cutrone. The two-goal lead allowed Como to settle defensively, countering effectively against Lecce, who were now more desperate for results.
Referee Marco Piccinini officiated the match. After the full time, Como 1907 celebrated their much-needed win, which saw them rise to 15th place, now on 18 points. Lecce, after this defeat, found themselves one spot below, sitting at 16th place with just 16 points.
Looking forward, Como prepares to host AC Milan as their next fixture, hoping to maintain momentum, whereas Lecce will be facing Genoa with aspirations of reclaiming their form. The match results have stirred up excitement and anticipation throughout Italy as the league season continues to progress.
The outcome not only provided Como with breathing room from the drop zone but also showcased individual standout performances, particularly from Nicolás Paz, who displayed tenacity following his earlier mishap and carved his name firmly as one of the match’s key players.