Como vs. RB Leipzig preview: Team news & predicted lineups

RB Leipzig is set to face Como in their Champions League opener on Thursday after a disappointing 3-1 loss to Werder Bremen. The German side had started the season impressively, winning both their DFB-Pokal and Bundesliga matches before the Werder Bremen defeat. Leipzig's manager, Martin Demichelis, described the loss as a "real wake-up call," emphasizing that they cannot afford to dwell on it for too long. Instead, they must learn from the experience and respond positively in the upcoming game.

Como, on the other hand, is making its debut in the Champions League following a fourth-place finish in Serie A last season. The Italian team has started the new campaign strongly, sitting third in Serie A with seven points after a recent 4-1 away win over Genoa.

For RB Leipzig, several players are dealing with injuries. Christoph Baumgartner and new signing Rocco Reitz will miss the match against Como, while Romulo and Assan Ouedraogo have yet to feature due to injuries. However, Leipzig is optimistic that both players could return to the squad for the Champions League opener. Castello Lukeba and Brajan Gruda are also doubtful after missing the Werder Bremen match and are fighting to be fit for the game.

Como, on the other hand, is missing only Jayden Addai, who has been sidelined with an Achilles tendon rupture since February. The Italian side has a confirmed absentee for the Champions League opener.