Following a stunning 4-1 demolition of Manchester United in the Champions League on Wednesday, Como coach Cesc Fàbregas and two-goal hero Nico Paz dedicated the historic victory to supporters who stayed loyal through years of hardship. At the 10,000-seat Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, the Italian club delivered a masterclass performance against the three-time Champions League winners in their debut season in Europe's premier competition.
Fàbregas said he hoped the landmark victory would spark a surge of local pride across the city. "We know the history of our club, how much they have suffered over the last many years," Fàbregas said. "Obviously, I hope that tomorrow all the boys and girls go to school wearing the Como shirt and feel proud."
Paz, the former Real Madrid midfielder tipped to inherit Lionel Messi's No. 10 jersey with Argentina, was named Player of the Match. He scored twice and set up Anastasios Douvikas for Como's second goal. "It has been one of the most beautiful nights of my career," Paz said. "I'm still young, but I will never forget it."
Fàbregas praised his team's relentless pressing and tactical discipline, saying the win proved the identity he is building. "We are trying to create a culture at the club, a style of play and an identity. Tonight was another convincing moment for us." Como moved up to ninth in the Champions League standings after starting their debut season with two wins in three matches.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing