Como take commanding 3-0 half-time lead against Lens in UEFA Champions League

Como produced a ruthless first-half display to lead RC Lens 3-0 at half-time on matchday four of the UEFA Champions League.

The Italian side took control from the opening stages and broke the deadlock in the seventh minute. Tasos Douvikas finished after being set up by M. Perrone, silencing the home crowd and putting Lens under immediate pressure.

Lens briefly thought they had an opportunity to respond in the 17th minute when they appealed for a penalty following an incident involving F. Thauvin. However, after the referee’s decision was reviewed by VAR, no penalty was awarded.

The home side struggled to cope with Como’s attacking play and had only 42% possession, compared with 58% for the visitors. Como doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute, with Douvikas scoring again after Alex Valle provided the assist.

Douvikas then turned provider before the interval. In the 40th minute, he set up Nico Paz, who added Como’s third goal and completed a dominant opening period for the Italian team.

Lens were 3-0 down by the 41st minute and facing the prospect of a heavy home defeat. They will need a completely transformed and far more aggressive performance after the break if they are to recover against a Como side that controlled the first half.