Fabregas Hails Como’s Roma Draw as One of His Best Coaching Displays

Cesc Fabregas said Como’s goalless draw with Roma at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia ranked among the strongest performances of his coaching career, praising his side’s willingness to press and play forward against Gian Piero Gasperini’s attacking team.

Inter analysis shaped Como’s plan

Fabregas based part of his preparation on studying how Simone Inzaghi’s Inter had previously caused problems for Gasperini’s sides. The Como coach identified that approach as a useful starting point before adapting the ideas for his own players.

• Como held Roma to a 0-0 result at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.
• Fabregas viewed Inzaghi’s Inter as the side that had most effectively troubled Gasperini.
• He used those previous performances to develop elements of Como’s match plan.
• The hosts looked to confront Roma directly rather than sit back against a side known for attacking football.

Fabregas said the tactical work only had value because his squad showed the nerve and physical commitment to carry it out. He felt Como’s display while both teams had 11 players on the pitch was particularly impressive.

He stressed that facing Roma requires character as well as organisation, arguing that a side will not collect points merely by preparing a system if the players lack the courage to receive and move the ball under pressure.

A rare scoreless meeting between attacking sides

The former Spain midfielder described the final score as unusual given the positive intentions of both teams. Fabregas felt it was not often that two sides prepared to attack each other finished without a goal.

While Como did not find the breakthrough needed for victory, the clean sheet against Roma offered further encouragement about the team’s progress under Fabregas. The coach was satisfied that his players could execute an ambitious plan against opponents of Roma’s standing.

Caqueret rewarded with a midfield start

Fabregas also explained his decision to select Maxence Caqueret ahead of Martin Baturina in midfield. Caqueret produced an energetic display in the middle of the pitch after being given the opportunity from the start.

• Caqueret was chosen in the starting XI instead of Baturina.
• Fabregas said the selection reflected what the player had earned through his work.
• The Como manager noted that Caqueret is not included in the club’s Champions League squad list.
• His training performances convinced Fabregas that he deserved to play against Roma.

Fabregas said the selection was not solely about tactical positioning. With Como setting up to counter Roma’s strengths, he believed Caqueret’s form in training warranted a place in the side.

Focus returns to Serie A

Como will now look to turn a disciplined and confident performance into further points in their upcoming Serie A matches. Fabregas remains focused on refining his ideas as the domestic campaign continues, with the Roma draw providing evidence that his side can compete assertively against leading opposition.