Como Demolish Lens 9-1, Fabregas: Stay Grounded, Don't Get Complacent

Como made a major statement in the Champions League after thrashing hosts Lens by a surprising 9-1 scoreline in the fourth week of the League Phase, Thursday (5/11/2026) early morning WIB. This win not only wrote new history for the Italian club but also sent a signal that they are serious contenders in Europe's elite competition.

Travelling to Stade Bollaert-Delelis, Cesc Fabregas's side were ruthless from the opening minute. Tasos Douvikas was the star with his hattrick, followed by goals from Nico Paz, Lucas Da Cunha, Marc Oliver Kempf, Mattia Liberali, Martin Baturina, and Matteo Papaccioli. Lens could only reply once through Ruben Aguilar, Fabregas's former teammate at Monaco, from a corner situation.

This win felt special because it was achieved away from home and completed Como's impressive League Phase record: two 4-1 home wins over RB Leipzig and Manchester United, plus a 2-3 defeat to Feyenoord. The result places Como fourth in the provisional standings, reinforcing their status as a dark horse to be reckoned with.

Despite the fantastic result, Fabregas refused to be complacent. In an interview with Sky Sport Italia, he stressed the importance of staying grounded. "This is our fourth match in the Champions League, so the number four is key. I am very happy, this is football and everything went the way we wanted," he said. However, he quickly added, "It is a beautiful night for Como and all the fans, but the players must keep their feet on the ground. They must stay humble, keep learning, and work hard to maintain this kind of performance."

Fabregas also highlighted his team's shortcomings, especially conceding from a set-piece situation. Aguilar's goal meant Como have still not managed a clean sheet throughout the League Phase. In addition, a packed schedule awaits: AEK Athens, Real Betis, Paris Saint-Germain, and a trip to Barcelona's home ground at the end of January. The main focus right now is the crucial match against Inter Milan in Serie A this weekend.

"The players must stay humble, keep learning, and work hard to maintain this kind of performance." - Cesc Fabregas

For Indonesian football fans, Como's performance under Fabregas can be a valuable lesson about the importance of mentality and consistency. An unfancied club can compete with Europe's big teams through hard work and the right tactics. Meanwhile, the ongoing naturalization dynamics of the Indonesian national team show a contrast: in Europe, clubs like Como prove that long-term development and strategy can produce surprises, while at home, the naturalization process remains in the spotlight and under debate.

Going forward, the real challenge for Como is maintaining consistency. With a heavy schedule and rising expectations, can they continue this momentum or will they stall along the way? Fabregas has instilled a humble attitude, but the real test has only just begun.