Cesc Fàbregas’ Como once again showed they can compete with Serie A’s elite, holding Napoli to a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona and extending their unbeaten run to nine games (W4, D5).

The clash between two sides enjoying strong starts to the season promised fireworks, and the opening exchanges did not disappoint. Como looked particularly dangerous early on, with Maxence Caqueret’s volley forcing a routine save from Vanja Milinković-Savić. However, the visitors suffered an early setback when Marc-Oliver Kempf was forced off with an injury inside the first eight minutes.

Despite the loss, Como continued to press and came close to taking the lead just before the half-hour mark. Assane Diao set up Alvaro Morata for a clear chance, only for the Spaniard to be brought down in the box by Milinković-Savić. Morata stepped up for the penalty, but his effort was saved, denying him a first goal for Como in 12 appearances.

Napoli, the reigning Scudetto holders, were largely restricted to long-range efforts. Scott McTominay’s 25-yard strike was parried by Jean Butez, while Eljif Elmas was also denied, ensuring a goalless first half.

After the break, Antonio Conte introduced Miguel Gutierrez, who came close with a powerful shot just over the bar. Matteo Politano then tested Butez with a near-post effort, but the Como goalkeeper kept the hosts at bay.

Como continued to absorb pressure efficiently, with Butez only called into serious action in the 80th minute, comfortably saving Rasmus Højlund’s close-range header. In the end, neither side could find a breakthrough, with Morata’s missed penalty proving decisive, preventing Como from claiming a historic first away win at Napoli.

Napoli picked up their first draw of the season but have now failed to win three of their last six Serie A matches.