Como put nine goals past Lens to match Champions League record

Como stunned Lens with a nine-goal rout, matching the record for most goals scored in a Champions League game. The Italian team equalled Bayern Munich's tally against Dinamo Zagreb in 2024, continuing their impressive debut season in Europe. After victories over RB Leipzig and Manchester United, as well as narrowly defeating Feyenoord, Como's remarkable performance lifted them to fourth in the league phase table.

Former Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha marveled at their achievement, praising their tenacity in pursuit of European success. While Como shares the record with Feyenoord, the latter holds the European Cup mark, having beaten KR 12-2 in 1969. Como's achievement stands as the biggest away win in Champions League history and only the third side since the competition's inception to win by an eight-goal margin.

No side has ever scored more than 19 goals in their first four games in European competition, with only Queen's Park Rangers achieving that feat in 1976-77. Como's rise has been unprecedented, having played in Serie D just a few years ago. A takeover by London-based Sent Entertainment, owned by Indonesian billionaires, significantly altered the club's trajectory.

Despite the change, their swift progress has been surprising, with CEO Mirwan Suwarso attributing it to the club's newfound wealth. Manager Cesc Fabregas has focused on developing young talent, mirroring his own growth as a manager. The historic night unfolded with Como scoring a goal in the seventh minute, and the team's dominance continued as they scored four more goals before halftime.

With Lens clinging to a 1-4 lead, Como's relentless attack culminated in a 9-1 victory, with substitute Matteo Papaccioli scoring the final goal in stoppage time.