Serie A, Como-Udinese 1-0

Milan, Jan. 3 (LaPresse) – Como’s pursuit of its European dream continues. The team coached by Cesc Fabregas beat Udinese 1-0 in the midday match valid for the 18th day of Serie A, confirming its sixth place in the standings with 30 points, two behind Juventus in fifth. Como remain unbeaten at home, as do Napoli and Juventus. Udinese, meanwhile, suffered their second defeat in their last three games and remain in mid-table limbo. A strong Como side ended the first 45 minutes in the lead thanks to a goal from da Cunha from the penalty spot in the 18th minute. The penalty was awarded by the referee for a naive foul by Piotrowski, who held Alberto Moreno by the arm. Udinese never really looked dangerous, while Como came close to doubling their lead at the end of the half with Perrone. The Argentine deflected a left-footed cross from Rodriguez with his heel, forcing 40-year-old Padelli into a miraculous save. In the second half, Udinese came out with greater determination and immediately threatened with Ekkelenkamp. The Friulians then found the net in the 55th minute with Zaniolo, but the referee and VAR ruled it out for a millimeter offside by the striker. Having escaped the danger, Como got back on track and almost doubled their lead with a sensational shot from Douvikas that hit the crossbar. In the final minutes, Fabregas sent on Nico Paz, who had initially been rested because he was not at his best, to secure the lead and the victory. Udinese’s final attacks were in vain, as they were unable to pose any real threat to Butez.