United, Bayern hit big as Como begin Champions League fairytale

Manchester United, Bayern Munich and debutants Como made emphatic starts to the new UEFA Champions League campaign on Thursday (September 10), all securing convincing victories.

Back in Europe’s premier club competition after a long absence, United swept aside Azerbaijan’s Sabah 4-0 at Old Trafford. Matheus Cunha opened the scoring before Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko struck before half-time. Lisandro Martinez added a fourth after the break as United, who have struggled for consistency domestically, earned a timely confidence boost.

Bayern were also ruthless after a goalless first half against Bodo/Glimt in Munich. Jamal Musiala broke the deadlock shortly after the restart, Harry Kane doubled the lead with a header and Alphonso Davies made it 3-0. Michael Olise then struck twice late on to complete a 5-0 rout.

The night’s most eye-catching story, however, came from Como. After overcoming a late stadium-related hurdle to host their historic European debut at home, Cesc Fabregas’ side produced a memorable 4-1 win over RB Leipzig.

Como raced into a 2-0 half-time lead before Assane Diao added a third after the break. Leipzig pulled one back through Andrea Maksimovic, but Maximiliano Perrone restored Como’s three-goal advantage late on.

For United and Bayern, it was a night of goals. For Como, it was the beginning of a European fairytale.