Milan and Como played to a 0-0 draw on Wednesday, a result that leaves Inter Milan with a significant lead in the Serie A title race. The match at San Siro was notable not only for the lack of goals but also for pre-game and post-match discussions surrounding refereeing and player conduct, with Igli Tare, a prominent football figure, expressing concerns about the impact of controversial incidents on the game. The draw allows Inter to maintain their eight-point advantage over Milan, increasing the pressure on the Rossoneri to perform consistently.
The stalemate comes at a crucial juncture in the season for both clubs. Milan, without European commitments this year, has benefited from a less congested schedule, allowing for focused preparation. However, they now face the challenge of closing the gap on Inter, while Como, enjoying a successful season after securing Serie A survival, continue to push for a Champions League qualification spot. A win for Como would have moved them within three points of fourth-placed Roma, but the draw keeps their ambitions within reach.
Prior to the match, Tare voiced his concerns regarding recent refereeing decisions and player interactions, specifically referencing an incident involving Bastoni and Kalulu. “Bastoni-Kalulu? Things from the past, they’ll happen again in the future. It’s not like they’ll stop,” Tare stated, as reported by sources covering the match. He further emphasized the necessitate for a more measured approach from players and officials, stating, “Obviously these things aren’t good for football, we all need to be smart and take a step back and try to give referees peace of mind so they can do their job in the best way possible.”
Como manager Cesc Fàbregas also addressed the challenges facing his squad, highlighting their limited depth. “We’re not a team built to play every 3 days. We’ve been playing every 3-4 days for 2 months,” Fàbregas explained. He also discussed his team’s tactical flexibility, noting that multiple players are capable of playing as a false nine, a strategy employed to create space and exploit Milan’s defense. “Everyone plays a bit as a false nine. It’s about trying to create space that can hurt Milan. We need to attack the depth, have good positional play, and be dangerous when we have the ball,” he said.
Lineups and Match Details
The match saw both teams field competitive lineups. Milan started with Maignan in goal, a defense of Tomori, De Winter, and Pavlović, and a midfield featuring Athekame, Jashari, Modrić, Ricci, and Bartesaghi. The attack was led by Nkunku and Leão. Como responded with Butez in goal, a backline of Kempf, Ramón, and Diego Carlos, and a midfield consisting of Vojvoda, Perrone, Caqueret, Roberto, and Van der Brempt, with Paz and Baturina up front.
MILAN (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlović; Athekame, Jashari, Modrić, Ricci, Bartesaghi; Nkunku, Leão.
COMO (3-5-2): Butez; Kempf, Ramón, Diego Carlos; Vojvoda, Perrone, Caqueret, Roberto, Van der Brempt; Paz, Baturina.
Leão’s Fitness and the Title Race
Tare also provided an update on the fitness of Rafael Leão, noting improvements in the player’s condition. “Leao has been much better physically in the last 10 days. The problem still exists but he’s much better,” Tare said. Leão’s performance will be crucial for Milan as they attempt to close the gap on league leaders Inter. The eight-point difference between the two Milan clubs, as of today, February 18, 2026, represents a significant challenge for the Rossoneri, and consistent results will be essential to maintain their title aspirations. OneFootball reported on the pre-match analysis.
Looking ahead, both Milan and Como face demanding schedules. Como’s limited squad depth, as highlighted by Fàbregas, will be tested as they continue to compete on multiple fronts. Milan, meanwhile, will need to capitalize on their opportunities and hope for a slip-up from Inter to reignite their title challenge. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the final standings in Serie A.
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