Sassuolo 2-1 Como: Serie A 2025-26 match report

The Friday night fixture at the MAPEI Stadium saw Sassuolo secure a narrow 2-1 victory over Como, in a match defined by a frantic three-goal burst immediately before the halftime whistle. Fabio Grosso’s 4-3-3 setup ultimately proved more clinical than Cesc Fabregas’s 4-2-3-1, as the hosts managed their lead through a disciplined second half despite sustained pressure from the visitors.

The opening and the decisive burst

The first half was largely characterized by tactical caution and a series of disciplinary infractions. Como’s defensive line, anchored by Jacobo Ramón Naveros and Álvaro Morata, found themselves in the referee’s notebook early, receiving yellow cards in the 14th and 26th minutes respectively. Both sides struggled to find a rhythm in the final third until the final minutes of the half, when the game underwent a sudden transformation.

The deadlock was broken in the 42nd minute. M’Bala Nzola turned provider, delivering a precise ball for C. Volpato, who found the back of the net to give Sassuolo the lead. The momentum swung decisively in favor of the hosts just two minutes later. In the 44th minute, the roles reversed as A. Laurienté provided the assist for M’Bala Nzola, who doubled the advantage.

However, Como responded almost immediately. Just before the interval, in the 45th minute, N. Paz capitalized on an assist from I. Smolčić to pull a goal back. This strike proved vital, as it ensured the visitors remained within striking distance heading into the locker rooms, setting the stage for a tense second half.

Tactical adjustments and second-half management

Recognizing the need for a change in approach, Cesc Fabregas made three significant substitutions at the break. I. Smolčić, M. Baturina, and M. Caqueret were introduced in place of M. Vojvoda, T. Douvikas, and M. Perrone. The changes were clearly intended to bolster Como’s midfield presence and inject fresh energy into their attacking transitions.

The second half became a more fragmented affair, marked by frequent stoppages and tactical fouls. I. Koné was cautioned for Sassuolo in the 51st minute, followed by a yellow card for C. Volpato in the 64th. As the game progressed, both managers utilized their benches to manage fatigue. Grosso brought on fresh legs in the form of A. Fadera and later M. Pinamonti and N. Matić, while Fabregas introduced Assane Diao and L. da Cunha in a final attempt to break down the Sassuolo defensive block.

Despite the increased intensity from Como, Sassuolo’s defense remained resilient. The visitors struggled to create high-quality chances as the clock ticked down, with Alberto Moreno picking up a yellow card in the 79th minute and K. Thorstvedt receiving one for the hosts in the 82nd. Sassuolo successfully disrupted Como’s rhythm, preventing the visitors from finding an equalizer and securing all three points.

Looking ahead

For Sassuolo, this victory provides a significant boost to their standing in the Serie A table, demonstrating an ability to withstand pressure and capitalize on short periods of offensive dominance. Como will look to address their defensive lapses during the first-half flurry, as they continue to refine their tactical consistency in the closing stages of the 2025-26 campaign.