Como edged Udinese 1-0 at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, with Lucas Da Cunha’s first-half penalty proving decisive as Cesc Fabregas’ side extended their impressive unbeaten run on home soil.
Nico Paz began the contest on the bench after missing training during the week, a decision Fabregas had already explained before kick-off.
Udinese showed early intent, fashioning the game’s first effort when Nicolò Zaniolo pounced on a high turnover and attempted an ambitious chip from distance, but his effort drifted off target. It would be Udinese’s only attempt of the opening half.
Como soon took control of proceedings, dictating possession and tempo. Their dominance was rewarded when Jakub Piotrowski clumsily conceded a penalty, allowing Da Cunha to step up and calmly convert for his maiden league goal of the season.
The hosts pushed for a second before the break. Jesús Rodríguez curled a promising effort wide from inside the area, while Maxi Perrone came close with an audacious backheel that forced Daniele Padelli into a smart save.
Udinese emerged after the interval with renewed urgency, introducing Scotland midfielder Lennon Miller for Hassane Kamara.
The visitors nearly drew level when Jürgen Ekkelenkamp found space, only to send his shot narrowly wide of Jean Butez’s post.
Zaniolo briefly thought he had restored parity after dribbling past Butez and carrying the ball over the line, but VAR intervened to rule him offside.
Como responded through Anastasios Douvikas, whose powerful effort crashed against the inside of the crossbar.
Nico Paz eventually entered the fray in the 68th minute, though the overall pattern remained unchanged.
Como continued to enjoy the lion’s share of possession, while Udinese struggled to mount any sustained threat on the counter.
The victory keeps Como sixth in the Serie A standings, just three points adrift of the Champions League places, though Juventus and Roma, both above them, still have a game in hand.
