Como (w) vs Sassuolo (w) on 14 February
On February 14th, two of Serie A Women's most intriguing teams will face off in a match that promises to deliver plenty of tactical intrigue and fierce competition. At the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, Como (w) will host Sassuolo (w) in a clash with significant implications for both teams' ambitions in the tournament. With each side aiming to secure a spot in the upper half of the table, every point is crucial, especially as we head toward the business end of the season. The stakes couldn't be higher, and it’s a match that will test both sides’ resilience, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance.
Como (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Como (w) enter this encounter in somewhat erratic form, having secured two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings. Their style of play is built on a well-organized defensive structure, often opting for a counter-attacking game where quick transitions are key. Como’s compact 4-4-2 formation has allowed them to defend deep and frustrate opponents, particularly in tight, high-stakes encounters. They average 46% possession, which reflects their preference for absorbing pressure and hitting on the break. One of their standout features is the number of successful pressing actions they generate – 12.7 per game, indicative of their tenacity and willingness to press high when given the chance.
Key to Como’s defensive solidity is their center-back pairing, who have proven adept at reading the game. However, their offensive play still relies heavily on individual moments of magic, with winger Valentina Giacinti often tasked with creating chances in the final third. In the absence of key attacking midfielder Alessia Tuttino, Como’s offensive creativity has taken a hit, making their counter-attacks less dangerous. As a result, a lot will depend on Giacinti's ability to break through Sassuolo's defense and exploit spaces on the flanks.
Sassuolo (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Sassuolo (w) have shown a more balanced and expansive style of play in recent weeks, with three wins and two losses in their last five games. The Emilian side typically sets up in a fluid 4-3-3 formation, allowing them to control possession (58% on average) and dictate the tempo of matches. Their attacking style revolves around quick ball circulation and overlapping full-backs, who push high to provide width and additional support for their forwards. Sassuolo’s build-up play from the back is one of their strongest suits, with an impressive pass accuracy rate of 84%, allowing them to progress the ball efficiently through the thirds of the pitch.
In terms of key players, their captain, midfielder Claudia Ferrato, remains the engine of the team, orchestrating play from midfield and contributing defensively. Alongside her, Valentina Giacinti’s strike partner, midfielder Sofia Cantore, will be a key figure in linking play between the midfield and attack. Sassuolo’s real weapon, however, lies in their full-backs, with the energetic duo of Greta Adami and Alice Parisi frequently arriving in advanced positions to deliver dangerous crosses. Sassuolo’s defensive record has been shaky at times, but they will look to tighten up against Como and build from the back without rushing their game plan.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last three encounters, Sassuolo (w) have had the upper hand, winning two of the three matches, with the most recent encounter in October seeing them secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The pattern has been consistent: Sassuolo have been able to dominate possession and control the midfield, but Como’s deep defensive block has often caused problems for them in attack. Although Como's defensive setup has frustrated Sassuolo, they have struggled to create consistent goal-scoring opportunities. This will likely be a major point of focus for Como coach Pietro Ghedin, who will want his team to remain compact but also offer more in attack. Historically, Sassuolo’s superior technical ability and fluid passing game have been decisive factors in their victories, but Como will look to exploit any lapses in concentration, especially on set pieces and counter-attacks.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The key tactical duel in this match will be between the full-backs and wingers. Como’s Giacinti will be tasked with exploiting the space left by Sassuolo’s advancing full-backs, especially Adami and Parisi, who are integral to Sassuolo’s offensive rhythm. If Como can break quickly in transition, it will put immense pressure on Sassuolo’s defensive line, particularly on the flanks, where they can be vulnerable. Another crucial area will be in the center of the park, where Sassuolo’s Ferrato will battle with Como’s pivot, Verena Rastelli. Ferrato’s ability to dictate play and control the tempo will be key to Sassuolo’s success, while Rastelli will need to disrupt Sassuolo’s rhythm to give her side a fighting chance.
Moreover, Como’s set pieces could play a pivotal role, given their height advantage in the box. The battle in the air, particularly from corners and free-kicks, will be an area where Como could exploit Sassuolo’s vulnerability. Sassuolo will need to be compact defensively and avoid conceding unnecessary fouls in dangerous areas.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given Como’s tendency to defend deep and Sassuolo’s penchant for dominating possession, it’s likely we’ll see a similar pattern to their past encounters. Sassuolo will control large portions of the game, but Como will look to spring fast counter-attacks, with Giacinti being the focal point of their offensive efforts. Sassuolo will likely have the upper hand in terms of possession and territorial advantage, but Como’s well-drilled defense will make it difficult for them to break through.
The match will be decided by the ability of both teams to capitalize on their moments. Sassuolo’s superior technical ability will give them an edge in midfield, but Como’s resolute defense and counter-attacking threats will keep them in the game. Expect a tight affair, with Sassuolo’s possession and width likely leading to a narrow 2-1 victory, although Como could snatch a draw if they are clinical on the break. The final scoreline is likely to be decided by a set-piece or a moment of individual brilliance.
Final Thoughts
This match will reveal whether Sassuolo can break down a well-organized defensive unit and capitalize on their dominance in possession. It will also test Como’s ability to transition quickly and exploit Sassuolo’s defensive frailties. With both teams locked in a battle for a higher league position, this match is bound to be full of intensity, strategic depth, and tactical warfare. How will Como handle Sassuolo’s offensive threat? Can Sassuolo find the cutting edge against a team that has proven tough to crack? This clash promises to deliver some fascinating insights into the evolution of Serie A Women’s tactics.
