Como Football Club pulled off a stunning upset against Napoli, defeating the Italian giants 2-1 at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia on February 23, 2025. This match, part of the 26th round of Serie A, marked Como's first victory over Napoli since 2002, ending a 21-year winless streak against the southern side known for its historic dominance and talent.
The clash began with what can only be described as one of the season's most unusual blunders. Just eight minutes in, Napoli's defender Amir Rrahmani accidentally scored an own goal. While attempting to play the ball back to goalkeeper Alex Meret after receiving a throw-in, he miscalculated, sending the ball directly past Meret and rolling unexpectedly across the goal line. Como quickly took advantage and led 1-0, sending shockwaves through the stadium and their fans.
Despite the early setback, Napoli responded with urgency. Only nine minutes later, on 17 minutes, they pulled level through talented midfielder Stanislav Lobotka, who put Giacomo Raspadori through on goal. Raspadori capitalized on Como's defensive errors, rounding goalkeeper Jean Butez to finish with ease, reinstilling hope for the visiting side.
With the match tied at 1-1, both teams had their chances to take control. While Napoli made efforts to assert dominance, Como showed resilience, absorbing pressure and counterattacking effectively. The visitors, who had been considered one of the league's best teams, were seemingly rattled by the unexpected turn of events.
The defining moment came late in the second half. At 77 minutes, Como’s midfielder Nicolás Paz delivered the match-winning assist. He orchestrated a thrilling counterattack, threading through Napoli’s line with pinpoint accuracy. Assane Diao, who received the pass, found space amid Napoli’s defenders, made his way to challenge Meret, and expertly slotted the ball past him, securing the 2-1 advantage for Como.
This goal not only bolstered Como’s lead but signified their emergence from the relegation zone, propelling them to 28 points and putting them solidly out of danger by seven points. Meanwhile, Napoli, sitting at 56 points, found themselves demoted to second place, losing the top spot to Inter Milan, who had won their match against Genoa just the previous day.
The aftermath of this match leaves Napoli in precarious territory. This was their fourth game without victory, following draws against Roma, Udinese, and Lazio. The once-dominant momentum Napoli held was now slipping through their fingers, creating pressure for their upcoming duel against Inter at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium, which is set to be pivotal for the league's title race.
Como's victory is not just one for the books; it’s historical. Under the management of Cesc Fàbregas, the team showcased determination and strategic prowess. With contributions from young talents like Nicolás Paz, who has now recorded four assists and six goals this season, Como appears poised for success as they shift focus toward their next challenges.
The Serie A keeps winding down, and with the stakes higher than ever, Como’s remarkable victory serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement inherent to football. The buzz around Fàbregas’s tactics and Como’s new strategy may signal the dawn of a formidable force within the league.
Fans will eagerly await the response from Napoli as they scramble to reclaim their position atop the table. Will they bounce back against Inter and reinstate their title hopes? Or will Como continue their dream run, attacking higher up the league? Only time will tell, and as the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Serie A's riveting battle.