Serie A
Douvikas strike boosts Como Champions League hopes
Cesc Fabregas's hopes of leading Como into the Champions League remain firmly intact after his team beat Hellas Verona 1-0.… Show More
Cesc Fabregas's hopes of leading Como into the Champions League remain firmly intact after his team beat Hellas Verona 1-0.
Como moved to within two points of AC Milan in fourth spot in Serie A, with a cagey win over its already-relegated opponent at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi - a result which ensured it will play in Europe for the first time in the club's history.
Andrias Edmundsson's defensive blunder proved costly for Verona in the 71st minute.
He should have cleared a long ball, but instead got caught under it, allowing Tasos Douvikas to pounce, and after setting himself, the Greek forward lashed home brilliantly.
Martin Baturina saw an attempt saved and Nico Paz was blocked on the counter-attack as Como searched for a second, though it was ultimately not required.
Como knows it must rely on slip-ups from the teams above it, while also likely having to beat Parma and Cremonese in it final two matches, to clinch a top-four spot.
It will also be hoping for a favour from Parma, which hosts sixth-place Roma before matchday 36 is out.
While the top-four race remains very much on, Como is assured of a place in the European places. The only question now is which continental competition it will be featuring in next season.
