Como Defeats Lazio 2-0 in Serie A Opener with Nico Paz Impact

Nico Paz, the 20-year-old Argentine midfielder on loan from Real Madrid, starred in Como's 2-0 Serie A season opener victory over Lazio, delivering both a goal and an assist. Paz assisted the opening goal with a precise through ball to Tasos Douvikas early in the second half, and later sealed the win with a stunning free kick that curled into the top corner. Lazio briefly thought they had equalized through Taty Castellanos, but the goal was ruled out for offside by VAR, with the decision uniquely announced live to the stadium as part of Serie A's new transparency initiative. Managed by Cesc Fàbregas, Como dominated possession and created more chances throughout the match, while Lazio, under Maurizio Sarri in his second spell, struggled to respond effectively. Despite Real Madrid declining to trigger an €8 million buy-back clause this summer, Paz continues to gain valuable experience and has attracted transfer interest from Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. His performances have also earned him a call-up to Argentina’s national team for upcoming World Cup qualifiers.