Como-Udinese: Match Preview

Fresh from their 3-0 victory away at Lecce, Como kick off 2026 by hosting Udinese at the Sinigaglia. After ending 2025 on a high note, thanks to goals from Nico Paz, Jacobo Ramon, and Tasos Douvikas, the Bianco Blu will look to carry their impressive form from last year into the new season. Udinese arrive in Como following a 1-1 home draw against Lazio, secured in the dying moments by a stunning strike from striker Keinan Davis. The Bianconeri are currently eleventh in the standings, level on points with Sassuolo and Atalanta. The match at the Sinigaglia promises to be a fascinating contest between two teams known for proactive, dynamic, and explosive football.

Here are the words of Como 1907 head coach Cesc Fàbregas ahead of Como-Udinese:
“Our goal for 2026 is to keep growing, always with clarity and a strong attention to detail. We want to see our young players take more steps forward and further develop our training center, making sure everyone stays connected through a shared culture. This journey is made up of many elements that eventually show in our results on the pitch, but growth is not just about what happens during matches. I think we made important progress this year, and I expect us to take even bigger steps going forward.

“Against Lecce, the team handled a difficult moment well. We had lost a few duels but adapted to a different style of football. That shows maturity.

“Udinese is one of the five most physically structured teams in Europe. They are intense and very strong in individual battles. We will need to play our game, using our own strengths. We have what it takes to cause them problems, and we will try to do that tomorrow.”

Udinese

The Bianconeri are a dangerous side who have already secured victories against Inter, Atalanta, and Napoli this season, proving they can hold their own against any opponent. Led by Kosta Runjaic, the team is extremely physical and fast. In their typical 3-5-2 formation, the wing-backs play a fundamental role. Udinese thrive on intensity and quick ball recovery, using their players’ pace to punish teams on the counter-attack.

The defensive trio, usually Kristensen, Kabasele, and Solet, is defined by sheer size and physicality, as shown by their 280 aerial duels won, which is the third-highest in Serie A. They are a combative team, highly effective at disrupting the opponent’s rhythm by breaking up play in midfield. In fact, Udinese rank third in the league for successful tackles.

Beyond muscle and intensity, Runjaic’s squad also boasts significant technical quality. Despite Atta’s absence, Ekkelenkamp is vital in midfield, acting as the bridge between the middle and final thirds. Up front, Keinan Davis and Nicolò Zaniolo lead the line effectively. Davis already has five goals and two assists, while Zaniolo has netted four, making them a constant threat.

On the flip side, Udinese currently have the joint-worst defensive record in the league, with 28 goals conceded, tied with Torino and Fiorentina. Injuries have forced Runjaic to reshuffle his backline frequently, and the tally was heavily impacted by the five goals conceded against Fiorentina on December 21. Udinese will arrive at the Sinigaglia determined to unsettle the Lariani by relying on their trademark physicality, intensity, and explosiveness.

Previous encounters

There have been 36 previous meetings between the two sides. The head-to-head record is slightly in favour of the Friuliani, with 14 wins for Udinese, 9 for Como, and 14 draws.

Last season, the points were shared. Udinese secured a 1-0 victory in the first half of the season, while the Bianco Blu triumphed at home on the shores of Lake Como in the return fixture.

In that match at the Sinigaglia last season, Como dominated with a 4-1 win, thanks to goals from Diao, Strefezza, and Nico Paz, along with an own goal by Bijol.

Match details

• Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026
• Kick-off: 12:30 CEST
• Stadium: Giuseppe Sinigaglia
• Referee: Arena
• Assistants: Imperiale-Mondin 

Where to watch

• Italy: Dazn
• Balkans: Arena Sport
• USA: CBS, DAZN 
• Latin America: ESPN & Disney +
• South Korea: SPOTV
• Rest of the world: Check local listings.