Como delivered a clinical performance at the Stadio Via del Mare, dismantling Lecce 3-0 in a Serie A clash that turned decisively in the visitors’ favor after an early red card shifted the momentum on December 27.
The match exploded into life in the 20th minute when Nico Paz broke the deadlock, giving Como a deserved lead after dominating the opening exchanges. Just two minutes later, R. Sottil received a yellow card, and Lecce’s afternoon went from bad to worse when E. Di Francesco saw red in the 24th minute, leaving the hosts to battle with ten men for over an hour.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Lecce showed admirable resilience, managing 11 shots and recording a respectable 0.55 xG. However, Como’s 61.9% possession and superior passing accuracy (90% completion rate) gradually wore down the depleted home side.
The second half brought more misery for Lecce. Jacobo Ramon doubled Como’s advantage in the 66th minute, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback. Anastasios Douvikas added the final flourish in the 75th minute, capitalizing on tired legs and stretched defensive lines to make it 3-0.
Como’s goalkeeper earned his keep with five crucial saves, while Lecce’s J. Butez made three stops but couldn’t prevent the inevitable. The visitors’ disciplinary record wasn’t spotless—yellow cards for I. Smolcic, J. Butez, Diego Carlos, and M. Perrone—but they maintained their composure when it mattered most.
The statistics tell the story: Como’s 1.63 xG reflected their quality in possession, while Lecce’s 15 interceptions and 27 clearances highlighted their desperate defensive effort. Ultimately, Di Francesco’s early dismissal proved catastrophic, allowing Como to control proceedings and secure three valuable points with a performance of tactical maturity and clinical finishing.
