Como 1907 extended their unbeaten run to eight matches across all competitions (W5, D3) after earning a hard-fought point in a goalless Serie A draw against Udinese Calcio at the Bluenergy Stadium.

Como, who are pushing for a historic place in the UEFA Champions League next season, showed early signs of why they have been one of the division’s standout teams under Cesc Fàbregas. In the opening 10 minutes, they created several promising moments, signalling their intent from the outset.

Diego Carlos came close with an early effort that narrowly missed the target, before Maximo Perrone tested Maduka Okoye with a shot that was comfortably saved. At the other end, Arthur Atta responded with a powerful strike in the 11th minute, which was well parried by Jean Butez.

The match briefly sparked controversy nine minutes later when Atta went down inside the penalty area. Despite strong appeals from the Udinese players and supporters, referee Fabio Maresca dismissed the claims and allowed play to continue.

After a quieter spell, the game opened up again before half-time. Nico Paz forced Okoye into another save from distance, while Butez quickly reacted at the other end to deny Hassane Kamara with a decisive stop.

As with much of the first half, the opening minutes of the second period lacked clear goal-scoring opportunities, with the main moment coming in the 57th minute when Christian Kabasele fired a shot that was comfortably held by Jean Butez.

With neither side able to find a breakthrough, managers Kosta Runjaic and Cesc Fàbregas looked to their benches for inspiration. A near-miss came from Como’s Sergi Roberto, whose header skimmed just over the crossbar.

Udinese’s substitutes also created late chances, with Idrissa Gueye unleashing a powerful strike that tested Butez’s reflexes, marking the final significant opportunity of the match.

The draw extends Como’s lead over Juventus to four points in the race for a Champions League spot, although they have played one extra game. Udinese remain two points shy of Serie A’s top half, having lost only once in their last five outings (W2, D2).