The Italian debutants are ready to spring a surprise: Como vs RB Leipzig prediction
The opening-round Champions League match between Como and RB Leipzig will take place on 10 September at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium. For the hosts, this will be the first match in the club's history in the main stage of a European competition, while the German side return to the Champions League after a one-year absence.
Como: rapid rise and strong results at home
Cesc Fàbregas's side finished fourth in Serie A last season, ahead of AC Milan and Juventus. Over the past two years, the club have gone from top-flight newcomers to Champions League participants and continue to strengthen their squad.
This season, Como have already beaten Napoli and Genoa away from home, while they kept 19 clean sheets in the previous league campaign. They also have plenty of attacking quality through Nico Paz, Tasos Douvikas and new signing Moise Kean.
RB Leipzig: new coach and problems on European away trips
Leipzig began the season under Martín Demichelis with victories over Eintracht Trier and Borussia Mönchengladbach before losing 3-1 to Werder Bremen. The Germans are back in the Champions League after finishing third in the Bundesliga.
However, their away record in Europe's premier club competition remains poor. Leipzig have collected just one point from their last six Champions League away matches.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Como will play in the main stage of a European competition for the first time in their history.
- The Italian club finished fourth in Serie A last season.
- Como's opponents have scored fewer than 1.5 goals in nine of their last 10 matches across all competitions.
- Como have scored fewer than 2.5 goals in eight of their last 10 matches across all competitions.
- RB Leipzig have collected only one point from their last six Champions League away matches.
The hosts can begin the competition with a victory: Como vs RB Leipzig prediction
Leipzig have more experience at this level, but the current Como side look very organised and confident. Returning to their home stadium after a run of away matches should also give the hosts an emotional boost.
The Germans are capable of creating plenty of chances, but their poor European away record raises doubts. Como can use home advantage to begin their debut campaign with maximum points.
