Como’s cup form and Nico Paz’s return make them more dangerous than recent league results suggest. Punters could find value on Como draw/no bet or both-teams-to-score markets as they’ve troubled big clubs recently, but Inter remain favourites after a 4-0 league win — a straight Inter win is likelier at shorter odds while cautious bettors may prefer handicap or draw/no-bet options.
Como cling to belief ahead of Coppa Italia semi-final first leg with Inter
Kick-off at Stadio Sinigaglia is scheduled for 20:00 GMT (21:00 CET). This semi-final Inter-Como is played over two legs, with the return tie planned for April 21 or 22. Como head into the fixture insisting on a winning mentality despite mixed domestic form.
Director of sport sets the tone
Director of sport Carlalberto Ludi insists the club approaches every match with belief. “We believe that we can win every game, not that we want to be presumptuous, but that is what we believe,” he said. “This is our mentality. We won’t manage it every single game, obviously, but this has to be the approach from the club, the coach and the players, so we want to keep that going.”
Team news and selection questions
There is tactical ambiguity in Como’s XI: no recognised centre-forward is on the team sheet, which suggests either Nico Paz or Maxence Caqueret could be deployed as a false nine. Martin Baturina is only fit for a place on the bench. Nico Paz returns to the side after being dropped against Lecce at the weekend amid disciplinary concerns; the club stresses he’s back and ready to contribute.
Tactical outlook
Deploying a false nine gives Como fluidity through the middle but risks leaving the team light in central hold-up play against Inter’s robust defence. Paz’s creativity and movement can unlock tight games, while Caqueret’s deeper instincts would shift the balance toward midfield control. Como will likely seek to press and exploit transitional moments, aiming to unsettle Inter early on.
Form guide and recent results
Como’s recent cup pedigree is notable: they beat Juventus, held Milan to a draw, and eliminated Napoli in the Coppa Italia quarter-final on penalties. Those results contrast with a heavy 4-0 Serie A defeat to Inter in December, showing a side capable of big performances but also vulnerable against top opposition.
Betting implications
Inter enter as favourites given the earlier 4-0 victory, but Como’s cup form suggests markets such as draw/no-bet, both teams to score, or handicap options may offer value.
Marotta on Inter targets, Nico Paz interest and Arsenal focus on Pio Esposito
Nico Paz’s return increases Como’s attacking threat, so expect bookmakers to adjust lines; cautious bettors might back Inter at shorter odds for a straight win, while looking to Como-related alternative markets for better value.
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