The Italian side produced a commanding performance at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, with Paz scoring twice and helping to set up a result that will live long in the club’s history.
For head coach Cesc Fàbregas, the scale of the occasion mattered, but the manner of the performance was just as encouraging. Como competed confidently against one of European football’s most recognisable clubs and took their chances to turn an ambitious night into a decisive victory.
“I’m very happy. I think it’s a historic night for the club, and we’re very happy,” Fàbregas told UEFA. “It was a good performance. The boys competed really well and played well, so we need to keep going and keep pushing.”
The coach said the team had discussed its identity and approach before the match, with bravery a central theme. Como did not want the occasion or their opponents’ reputation to dictate how they played.
“This morning, we spoke about certain things, about certain principles and about who we are,” Fàbregas said. “We need to play with bravery and without fear, and I think that’s the most important thing.”
He was particularly pleased that his players had paired their determination with technical quality, rather than relying on effort alone.
“The boys showed great quality and great character,” he added. “We always talk about character and everything, but today the boys also played with a lot of quality.”
Paz was named Player of the Match after scoring twice in a display that repeatedly troubled Manchester United. The Argentina international described the occasion as a personal milestone as well as a landmark for Como.
“It’s one of the most special nights of my life and my career, for me and for the club,” Paz told TNT Sports. “It was a historic night because we played against one of the best clubs ever and to do this at home is incredible. We’re very happy with our performance.”
The midfielder also credited his team-mates and the coaching staff for giving him the freedom and confidence to play his natural game.
“I felt so good out there. I enjoyed this game very much. I am surrounded by amazing team-mates and that allows me to play my game,” he said. “I’m very happy to play in this team, also because of the staff that give me lots of confidence.”
Paz said Como wanted to build on the result rather than treat it as a one-off achievement. Their debut Champions League campaign remains a new experience for the club, and he urged the team to keep enjoying the challenge.
“We played the way we needed to, approached the game really well and made the most of our opportunities, which was the most important thing,” he told UEFA. “We want to keep this momentum going because, if we continue like this, we’re going to have a lot of fun.”
Fàbregas, meanwhile, was careful not to let one major result inflate expectations. He rejected the suggestion that other European clubs should fear Como, stressing the importance of humility and continued work.
“We are new to this competition, so, as I said, we need to keep our feet on the ground, keep working, keep pedalling, and then see where the future takes us,” he said.