Como stun Manchester United to leave Champions League victory hopes on hold

Como delivered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Manchester United, leaving the English side waiting for a second win in the UEFA Champions League.

Manchester United’s difficult evening began almost immediately. In the second minute, Da Cunha picked out Nico Paz, who calmly beat Senne Lammens to put Como ahead.

The visitors attempted to respond by pushing into Como’s half, but their attacks failed to produce an equaliser. The Italian side continued to threaten and came close to adding a second goal before the interval.

Manchester United reached half-time still within touching distance, with the possibility of a stronger performance after the break offering some hope.

That prospect quickly disappeared. After seeing earlier efforts go unrewarded, Tasos Douvikas found the target in the 49th minute to double Como’s advantage. Nico Paz then completed his brace eight minutes later, having supplied the assist for Douvikas’ goal.

Jacobo Ramon added a fourth goal to settle the contest and leave Manchester United facing a substantial deficit.

The Red Devils did manage to respond late on. Amad Diallo, one of the players introduced from the bench, delivered a cross for Joshua Zirkzee, who had also come on during the match. The forward converted the chance, giving Manchester United a consolation goal before they left Italy.

The result means Manchester United must now recover quickly. Their next UEFA Champions League fixture will be against AS Roma on matchday four, while Como will travel to Lens.