Full Breakdown
Como 1907 Secures First-Ever European Qualification Under Cesc Fabregas
5/11/2026, 7:55:54 PM
Securing Europe: 1-0 Victory Over Hellas Verona
On Sunday, Como 1907 beat Hellas Verona 1-0 at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi, securing a top-six Serie A finish and at least Conference League qualification for 2024-25. Anastasios Douvikas scored in the 71st minute, his 13th league goal, after a scramble in the box. The result left Como ten points ahead of Atalanta (7th) and two points behind Roma (5th), keeping a Champions League push alive as the season ends.
Background and Rapid Ascent
Como 1907 spent two seasons in Serie C, three in Serie B, and returned to Serie A in 2022. Two years after that promotion, the club clinched European football for the first time. Cesc Fabregas, a former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder, took permanent charge in 2024 and has overseen the rapid rise.
Key Figures
- Cesc Fabregas – manager of Como 1907
- Anastasios Douvikas – Greek striker who scored the decisive goal
- Como 1907 – club now sixth in Serie A
Data and Statistics
Como finished the campaign with 65 points, securing sixth place. They sit ten points above Atalanta (7th) and two points behind Roma (5th, 67 points). Douvikas’ 13th goal ties him with Marcus Thuram among the league’s top scorers. Inter lead with 85 points; Napoli (70), Juventus (68) and AC Milan (67) occupy the remaining Champions League spots. Two matches remain: Parma at home and Cremonese away.
Official Statements and Responses
In a DAZN interview, Fabregas praised the club’s progress since promotion, noting the mental pressure of modern football and the influence of social media. He said the team must enjoy the moment while staying focused on the remaining fixtures and future ambitions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm very happy and proud today.” — Cesc Fabregas
- “Two years ago today we were promoted to Serie A and today we're qualifying for Europe.” — Cesc Fabregas
- “The team, the club, the fans have all grown, it's inexplicable, we will remember this day twenty years from now.” — Cesc Fabregas
- “These days, with social media, everything goes so fast, there's so much pressure.” — Cesc Fabregas
- “You have to enjoy it.” — Cesc Fabregas
- “I don't remember how many trophies I won, but there is much more to come.” — Cesc Fabregas
Why It Matters
Como’s European qualification marks the club’s first appearance in continental competition, creating new revenue streams and raising its profile. The achievement also boosts Fabregas’s managerial reputation, prompting speculation about a possible return to England. It highlights the growing competitiveness of Serie A’s mid-table, where promoted sides can challenge traditional powers.
What’s Next
Como’s final two fixtures against Parma and Cremonese will decide whether they can reach the Europa League spots or mount a surprise Champions League challenge. Success would cement their European status and set up a historic debut next season.
