Como makes history, beats Leipzig 4-1 on Champions League debut

At the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, one of Italy's oldest stadiums, Como made history by defeating RB Leipzig 4-1 on their Champions League debut after a 119-year wait. For the German side, it was a heavy defeat that exposed defensive organization and squad cohesion issues. From the opening minutes, Como showed the confidence of a team that has played together for three years under Djarum Group ownership. In the 12th minute, Martin Baturina opened the scoring after a slick combination. A defensive error by Leipzig's Ridle Baku, failing to clear decisively, allowed the Croatian midfielder to score. The second goal came from a pass that split the defense, with Castello Lukeba unable to cover. Baturina again provided the assist. By halftime, Como led 3-0. Leipzig coach Martin Demichelis was disappointed. "The first two goals were gifts, unacceptable mistakes at this level," he said. "We need a better structure without the ball, but that didn't happen." Although Leipzig improved possession in the second half, they conceded again on Como's first attack after the break. This is only the second time an Italian club has scored four goals in their Champions League debut, after Sampdoria in 2026. The key difference was squad stability. Como has a team that has been together for about three years with a clear identity. Leipzig, meanwhile, has eight new players in the squad, leading to a clear lack of cohesion, especially defensively. Demichelis admitted, "We have eight new players, and that showed on the pitch. It's difficult to give a proper analysis right now." However, the 4-1 win is historically significant but also a statistical outlier. Leipzig actually played better in the second half in terms of possession, but conceded on Como's first attack. This shows the problem is not ball retention but defensive transition. Pressure is mounting on Demichelis. By publicly criticizing individual errors, he has placed pressure on himself. The next match against PSV on October 13 will be a real test. If Leipzig's defense continues to make mistakes, crisis stories will quickly emerge. For Como, this was an unforgettable night. Fans waited 119 years to see their team in the Champions League, and they enjoyed a sweet victory. The stable investment of Djarum Group has created a well-defined team ready for Europe. Tactically, Leipzig's defeat is a classic lesson in a clash between a talented but uncoordinated team and a less famous but well-oiled opponent. Demichelis has three weeks to fix the defense; otherwise, questions about his future will arise. Como's historic night will be remembered, but the real question is whether they can maintain this form. For Leipzig, they need to reflect before it's too late.