Como produced a clinical first-half performance 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 exchanges and moved ahead after only seven minutes. Tasos Douvikas finished after being set up by M. Perrone, leaving Lens facing an early deficit on home soil.
Lens briefly appeared to have a chance to respond when they appealed for a penalty in the 17th minute following an incident involving F. Thauvin. However, after the referee consulted VAR, the decision was that there was “no penalty”.
Como continued to dominate possession and territory, with Lens holding 42% of the ball compared with 58% for the visitors. The home side struggled to contain Como’s attacking movement and found themselves under sustained pressure.
Douvikas doubled Como’s advantage in the 32nd minute, scoring his second goal of the match after being picked out by Alex Valle. His influence continued to grow as Como maintained their control and repeatedly exposed gaps in the Lens defence.
The visitors added a third shortly before the interval. Nico Paz struck in the 40th minute after being supplied by Douvikas, who had now contributed two goals and an assist during an outstanding opening period.
Lens were 0-3 down by the 41st minute and appeared close to being overwhelmed by Como’s efficiency. The French club will need a dramatically improved and more aggressive performance after the break if they are to recover against an Italian side that dominated the first half.
