Nico Paz scores and Como defeats Lazio in their Serie A debut
Newly promoted Como 1907 stunned Lazio 2-0 in their Serie A debut on Saturday, with Nico Paz delivering a goal and an assist to mark a dream start under head coach Cesc Fàbregas.
Paz leads Como to statement victory
The Argentine playmaker, formerly of Real Madrid, was the undisputed star of the night. In the 49th minute, he turned brilliantly in midfield before sliding a precise through ball to Tasos Douvikas, who clinically finished to open the scoring.
Later, Paz sealed the win with the moment of the match a stunning free kick into the top corner, leaving Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel with no chance. His performance drew immediate praise, with many already touting the 19-year-old as one of the breakout stars of the season.
Spanish flavor in Serie A debut
The game had a strong Spanish influence, with seven Spaniards in Como’s squad and four in Lazio’s, including veterans Álvaro Morata and Pedro Rodríguez. Before kickoff, cameras captured a symbolic moment: Lazio’s experienced coach Maurizio Sarri alongside Fàbregas, representing different eras of Italian football.
Despite Sarri’s experience, it was Fàbregas who came out on top tactically, as Como controlled possession and dictated the tempo for much of the game.
VAR denies Lazio lifeline
Lazio thought they had equalized when Taty Castellanos beat Anthony Butez in a one-on-one, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. The disallowed strike proved decisive, as the Biancocelesti never recovered momentum.
Fàbregas later brought on Álvaro Morata, who nearly made an instant impact with a long-range effort that curled just wide. But it was Paz’s brilliance that ultimately secured the points for Como.
Bright future for Como
The 2-0 result sends a clear message: Como are not in Serie A just to survive. With Fàbregas on the sidelines and Nico Paz orchestrating attacks, the Lombard side looks ready to challenge established names.
Lazio, meanwhile, leave with questions about their defensive shape and lack of cutting edge in attack, as Sarri’s men struggled to break down a disciplined Como side.
