Como 1907 dismantled Manchester United 4-1 at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, securing a commanding victory in the third matchday of the UEFA Champions League 2026/2027 league phase. As Kompas.com reported, manager Cesc Fabregas praised his side’s execution while demanding immediate focus on domestic commitments. The Italian club capitalized on an early surge and relentless pressure, leaving the visiting English side trailing from the opening minutes.

Nico Paz Sets the Pace with Early Strike

The match turned decisively in the hosts’ favor within the opening moments. The opening goal came at 23.45 WIB on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, as the home side dominated the first half entirely. During this period of heavy pressure, Manchester United midfielder Andrey Santos received a yellow card in the 24th minute.

Second-Half Goals Seal the Win

Como extended their advantage after halftime as Anastasios Douvikas, Nico Paz again, and Jacobo Ramon added to the scoreline. Manchester United salvaged a late consolation goal through substitute Joshua Zirkzee during stoppage time. The four-goal haul highlighted an aggressive display that left visiting manager Michael Carrick’s side scrambling defensively throughout the night against a tight defensive line anchored by Jacobo Ramon and Marc-Oliver Kempf.

Fabregas Expresses Mixed Feelings Over Late Tempo Drop

Despite the comfortable scoreline, Fabregas admitted frustration with how his team managed the closing stages. “Saya menyesali sepuluh menit terakhir karena sayalah yang meminta tim menurunkan tempo permainan,” Fabregas said, explaining that he wanted to conserve energy for an upcoming Serie A fixture against Sassuolo.

Mirwan Suwarso and Club Growth Highlighted

VIVA.co.id reported that Como club president Mirwan Suwarso drew widespread attention with his visible celebrations in the stands as the scoreline reached 4-0. The moment highlighted the club's dramatic ascent since Indonesian investors acquired it in 2019 while it competed in Serie D. Reaching the Champions League group stage and defeating a traditional European powerhouse marks a milestone in the club’s modern trajectory.

Tactical Freedom and Squad Reality

When asked about replicating such performances against heavyweights like Inter Milan, Napoli, or Roma, the manager stressed the need to remain humble rather than making bold claims.

Como Holds Fifth Place While United Faces Pressure

Como turns its attention back to domestic competition, where the club currently holds fifth place in Serie A. Manchester United remains under intense pressure following the result, sitting thirteenth in the Premier League standings as critics scrutinize their European campaign.

Upcoming Champions League Slate

The European schedule continues with further league phase fixtures. On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 23.45 WIB, Lille meets Galatasaray alongside the Como-Manchester United fixture. Action resumes on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 02.00 WIB with several marquee fixtures: Aston Villa faces Viking, Club Brugge plays Lens, Bayern Munich hosts Arsenal at the Allianz Arena, Inter Milan encounters Shakhtar Donetsk, Real Madrid takes on RB Leipzig, Real Betis squares off against Feyenoord, and Sporting CP battles LASK.