Como's recent Serie A match ended with them stunning title contenders Napoli with a 2-1 win at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. The victory marked just the second time Como has triumphed over Napoli in Serie A history, the first being back in November 1952. The win is significant as Como not only moved away from relegation danger but also handed Napoli a setback as they vie for the Serie A title.
The match, played on February 23, 2025, began with drama right from the first few minutes. Napoli faced a shocking own goal from Kosovan defender Amir Rrahmani just seven minutes after kickoff. Rrahmani, attempting to pass the ball back to keeper Alex Meret, miscalculated, sending the ball directly toward the net, where it rolled through due to Meret being out of position. The blunder put Como up 1-0, forcing Napoli to chase the game early on.
Despite the early setback, Napoli responded swiftly. Just ten minutes later, Giacomo Raspadori leveled the match by capitalizing on Como's defensive error. Como defender Marc Oliver Kempf lost possession, allowing Raspadori to seize the ball, glide past Jean Butez, and score, making it 1-1. Napoli, recognizing the necessity of the three points to reclaim the top spot in Serie A from Inter Milan, seemed eager to assert control.
Following Raspadori's goal, Napoli gained momentum, dominating possession and creating several threats. They had 60% possession at one point and tested Butez multiple times, with Scott McTominay nearly putting them back on top with a powerful shot, only to be thwarted by Butez's acrobatics. Although Napoli was setting the tempo, they were unable to convert chances, which would haunt them as the match progressed.
The second half was pivotal for Como. Their approach shifted, and they took the game to Napoli, showing resilience and grit. A key moment arrived in the 77th minute when Assane Diao broke the deadlock with what would turn out to be the winning goal. Diao, who has emerged as one of Como's brightest young talents, received the ball from Nico Paz at the edge of the box and drilled it past Meret with precision. This marked Diao's third consecutive game scoring, affirming his rise since joining Como earlier this year.
Como's triumph not only brought joy to their supporters but significantly dented Napoli's hopes of reclaiming the Serie A lead. With this loss, Napoli extended their winless streak to four matches, having last won on December 8 against Lazio. The confusion and errors seen from Napoli raised questions about their title aspirations under manager Antonio Conte, especially with the looming high-stakes clash against Inter Milan next weekend.
The result also moved Como seven points clear of the relegation zone, solidifying their position as they strive to maintain their status in Serie A, the first time they have competed at this level for over two decades. Under Cesc Fabregas' management, Como's acquisition of talent during the winter transfer window appears to be paying off. Diao, who transferred from Real Betis, has been particularly influential, becoming pivotal to Como's recent performances.
Como's strategy of bringing in fresh talent and captivating passionate performances resonates with optimism. Meanwhile, Napoli faces significant pressure as they prepare for their next encounter against Inter, which may define not only their season but the fate of the Scudetto.
Overall, Como's victory served as both a warning shot for the Serie A elite and a thrilling highlight for their fans, presenting the essence of underdog triumphs. With this match now part of Serie A lore, the stage is set for more electrifying encounters as the season heats up.