Como 0-0 Inter: Coppa Italia 2025-26 match report

The Coppa Italia encounter at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia on Wednesday evening ended in a stalemate, as Como and Inter played out a goalless draw. In a match defined by tactical discipline and defensive organization, neither side was able to find the breakthrough, leaving the tie delicately poised ahead of the return leg.

A tactical stalemate

Cesc Fàbregas opted for a 4-3-3 formation for the hosts, aiming to control the midfield battle and utilize the width of the pitch. Conversely, Cristian Chivu set Inter up in a 3-4-2-1 system, prioritizing structural integrity and looking to exploit the half-spaces between the Como defensive and midfield lines.

The opening hour was characterized by a cautious approach from both sides. Como looked to maintain their shape, successfully nullifying Inter’s attempts to build through the middle. While Inter enjoyed long spells of possession, they struggled to penetrate a well-drilled Como backline that remained compact and disciplined. The hosts, meanwhile, were content to absorb pressure and look for opportunities on the counter-attack, though they were unable to test the Inter goalkeeper with any frequency. The lack of clear-cut chances reflected a game where defensive caution took precedence over offensive flair, with both managers seemingly wary of conceding the opening goal.

The decisive moment

With the game locked in a tactical deadlock, both managers turned to their benches in the second half to inject fresh energy and change the game’s complexion. Cristian Chivu was the first to act, making a triple substitution in the 58th minute. By introducing Matteo Darmian, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, and Francesco Esposito, the Inter coach sought to revitalize his attack and add more directness to his side’s play.

Fàbregas responded with a series of changes of his own throughout the latter stages of the second half, bringing on the likes of Sergi Roberto, Álex Valle, and Nico Paz to shore up his midfield and provide more technical security in possession. Despite these adjustments, the pattern of the game remained largely unchanged. Inter continued to press for a goal, particularly in the final ten minutes, but Como’s defensive structure held firm. The introduction of Davide Frattesi in the 85th minute was Inter’s final roll of the dice, yet the visitors were unable to carve out a decisive opportunity. As the final whistle blew, the scoreline remained 0-0, a fair reflection of a contest where defensive organization ultimately trumped attacking intent.

Looking ahead

For Inter, the result necessitates a victory in the return leg to progress, placing the pressure on Chivu to find a more clinical edge in the final third. Como, having successfully kept a clean sheet against a formidable opponent, will view this as a positive foundation to build upon as they look to secure an upset in the competition.