Senegal forward Assane Diao scores first Champions League goal as Como stun RB Leipzig
Senegalese forward Assane Diao marked a memorable Champions League debut with his first goal in Europe’s elite competition as Como produced a stunning 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig on Thursday night.
The 21-year-old was among the standout performers as Como made their first appearance in the Champions League league phase at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, delivering an impressive performance against the German side.
Como went into the interval with a commanding 2-0 advantage after Martin Baturina and Anastasios Douvikas found the net, putting Cesc Fabregas’ side firmly in control of the contest.
Diao then added his name to the scoresheet in the 54th minute to make it 3-0.
The Senegal international showed composure to finish the opportunity and complete a memorable moment in his European career. It was his first Champions League goal and further underlined his growing importance to the Italian outfit.
RB Leipzig pulled a goal back through Andrija Maksimovic in the 58th minute, briefly offering the visitors hope of a comeback.
However, Como remained in control and eventually restored their three-goal advantage when Maximo Perrone scored in the closing stages to seal a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
Diao was eventually substituted in the 86th minute after playing a key role in Como’s historic opening-night triumph.
The victory represents an outstanding start to Como’s Champions League campaign, while Diao’s goal provides another major milestone in his rapidly developing career.
After already impressing in Serie A, the Senegalese attacker has now announced himself on the biggest European stage, giving Como another attacking weapon as they embark on their Champions League adventure.
For Diao, scoring in his first Champions League appearance will be a moment to remember, while Como can take enormous confidence from defeating Leipzig in such convincing fashion. UEFA lists the Leipzig fixture as Diao’s first Champions League match of the 2026/27 campaign.
