Como’s rise from the depths of the lower leagues to the pinnacle of European football reached a fever pitch on thursday night as they dismantled RB Leipzig. In what was the club's first-ever appearance in the Champions League, Cesc Fabregas’ side played with the composure of seasoned veterans to secure a historic 4-1 victory.
Several high-profile stars have been left out of European squad lists following key deadline decisions. From Liverpool's Federico Chiesa and Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy to Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can, managers across the continent faced tough selection calls due to injuries and squad limits.
Como 1907 president Mirwan Suwarso has announced he will step aside to allow the club's longest-serving supporters to witness their European bow. The chief executive and several high-ranking board members are relinquishing their VIP tickets for the upcoming clash against RB Leipzig, ensuring that those who have supported the Lariani through the lowest depths of Italian football can now enjoy the ultimate high.
Alvaro Morata has insisted he is not closing the door on his international career after missing Spain's triumphant 2026 World Cup campaign. The veteran forward admitted that fierce competition in attack makes a recall difficult but reflected warmly on watching his former team-mates lift the trophy following a candid phone call from Luis de la Fuente.
The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
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