Assane Diao reveals what inspired his performance for Como

Senegalese star Assane Diao explained what helped him to produce a standout performance as Como cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Pisa in the Italian league (Serie A) on Sunday.

Starting for Cesc Fabregas against Pisa this Sunday, the Senegalese striker for Como scored his first goal since April 2025, opening the scoring for Lariani in the 7th minute.

Assane
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Diao wasted no time making his mark, opening the scoring just seven minutes into the match. The forward showcased his individual brilliance with a skillful move before firing a left-footed strike into the net to give his side an early lead.

He continued to influence the game, playing a key role in Como’s second goal by assisting Anastasios Douvikas, underlining his attacking impact throughout the match.

‘Fabregas is happy for me’

“I’m very happy. Today is another victory and I’m back on the scoresheet. I thank God, who has been a great support during this difficult period, as well as my family, who have always been there for me,” Diao told DAZN after the game.

“The coach (Cesc Fabregas) is happy for me; he knows how long I’ve been out, and that’s very important to me.”

Diao’s impressive outing came to an end in the 77th minute when he was substituted for Nicolas-Gerrit Kühn, having already made a decisive contribution with both a goal and an assist.

With this victory, Como continue their impressive campaign, currently sitting fourth in the Serie A standings with 57 points — occupying a UEFA Champions League qualification spot. They are just three points ahead of fifth-placed Juventus.

Diao has been plagued by injuries since April

A hamstring injury had forced Diao to withdraw from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, and sidelined him for nearly three months.

 

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But the 20-year-old returned to the pitch against Lecce (3-1) in Serie A on February 28, where his coach was quick to highlight his qualities.

This brief appearance was followed by around twenty minutes in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter Milan (0-0).

Diao has been plagued by injuries since April 2025, a situation that has limited him to just six matches without a goal.

On 7 January 2025, Betis announced Diao’s transfer to Como in a deal reported to be in the region of €12 million. Born in Senegal, Diao represented Spain at the U-18, U-19 and the U-21 before opting to switch allegiance back to his homeland.

He has made two appearances for Senegal and is yet to score for the two-time African champions.