Como handed Manchester United a humiliating 4-1 defeat in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, extending the English side’s winless run across all competitions to seven matches and increasing the pressure on manager Michael Carrick.
Argentina international Nico Paz delivered an outstanding performance for the Italian side, scoring twice and providing an assist as Cesc Fabregas’ men dominated the encounter.
Joshua Zirkzee scored a late consolation goal for United, who struggled to cope with their opponents throughout the match.
Como took the lead just two minutes into the encounter when Paz found space outside the box before curling a superb effort into the top corner.
The goal exposed United’s defensive weaknesses and gave the hosts an early advantage.
United struggled to respond, with Harry Maguire heading wide from a Bryan Mbeumo cross, while Como continued to threaten.
Tasos Douvikas missed a promising opportunity before the visitors escaped further punishment when an offside flag ruled out a potential penalty incident involving goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Carrick made two substitutions at half-time, introducing Amad Diallo and Carlos Baleba in an attempt to improve his side’s performance.
However, Como extended their lead four minutes into the second half when Paz set up Douvikas, who exploited Matthijs de Ligt’s defensive positioning before finishing confidently.
Paz struck again in the 57th minute after Baleba lost possession in his own half, allowing the Argentine midfielder to race towards goal and complete his brace.
The goal further underlined United’s defensive shortcomings as Como maintained their control of the contest.
The hosts added a fourth in the 76th minute when centre-back Jacobo Ramon headed home following another well-worked attacking move.
United managed to reduce the deficit in stoppage time through Zirkzee, who controlled Diallo’s cross before finding the net.
Bruno Fernandes endured another disappointing outing, contributing little to United’s attacking efforts.
The midfielder has now recorded just one goal involvement in his last nine appearances for the club.
The defeat leaves United with three points from their opening three matches in the Champions League league phase, putting them under pressure to improve their results if they are to progress in the competition.
Carrick’s side will now turn their attention to Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, where they will seek to end their disappointing run and restore confidence ahead of their next European assignment.
