Como, Italy – Como 1907 delivered a resounding performance, defeating Pisa 5-0 in a Serie A match filled with emotion on Sunday, March 22, 2026. The victory served as a poignant tribute to the club’s majority shareholder, Michael Bambang Hartono, who passed away on March 19th at the age of 86.
The match at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia began with a moment of silence honoring Hartono, a figure instrumental in Como’s remarkable rise through the Italian football pyramid. Goals from Assane Diao, Anastasios Douvikas, Martin Baturina, Nico Paz, and Maximo Perrone secured a dominant win for I Lariani, solidifying their position in the Champions League contention.
Hartono, alongside his brother Robert Budi Hartono, acquired Como 1907 in 2019 when the club was languishing in Serie D. Their investment and vision have propelled Como to Serie A and now into contention for European football’s most prestigious club competition. The Hartono brothers built a substantial fortune through the Djarum tobacco empire, diversifying into banking (BCA), electronics (Polytron), and property.
“Today’s win is important because we lost a valuable figure at Como,” said Cesc Fabregas, Como’s manager, to DAZN. “Today we send a warm embrace to the Hartono family. Because of them, we are all able to live like this. This victory is more important in that regard.”
First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone
Como established control early in the match, despite some initial pressure from Pisa. Assane Diao broke the deadlock in the 7th minute with a left-footed strike that beat Pisa goalkeeper Nicolas Andrade. The goal ignited the home crowd and set the stage for a dominant first half.
Jesus Rodriguez came close to doubling Como’s lead in the 19th minute with a header, but his effort narrowly missed the target. Anastasios Douvikas then extended the advantage in the 29th minute, capitalizing on a cross from Diao to make it 2-0. Nico Paz also had an opportunity in the 34th minute, but Andrade was able to make the save.
The first half concluded with Como firmly in control, holding a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Second-Half Flourish Completes the Victory
Pisa attempted to mount a response at the start of the second half, with Felipe Loyola posing a threat, but Como’s defense remained resolute. Just three minutes into the second half, Martin Baturina increased Como’s lead to 3-0 with a well-placed shot that eluded Pisa’s defenders.
Loyola continued to be a danger for Pisa, testing Como’s goalkeeper with a powerful shot in the 55th minute, but the attempt failed to find the back of the net. Como continued to press, adding two more goals through Nico Paz in the 75th minute and Maximo Perrone in the 81st minute, completing the 5-0 rout.
The comprehensive victory moves Como to 57 points, maintaining their strong position in the Serie A standings as they chase a coveted Champions League spot. The win was a fitting send-off to Michael Bambang Hartono, whose vision and investment have transformed Como 1907 into a force in Italian football.
Hartono was also a dedicated bridge player, actively campaigning for the inclusion of bridge in the Asian Games. His team secured a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games, demonstrating his commitment to the sport beyond the football pitch.
Como 1907’s official website released a statement expressing their deep sadness at Hartono’s passing, extending their sincerest condolences to the Hartono family and the Djarum Group. The club acknowledged Hartono’s leadership and the new chapter he ushered in for Como, remembering him with gratitude and respect.
The club’s impressive ascent from Serie D to Serie A, and now their push for Champions League qualification, stands as a testament to Hartono’s belief in the potential of Como 1907. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire the club and its supporters for years to come.
Next Up: Como 1907 will resume Serie A play after the international break, with their next match to be announced. Fans can follow the club’s official website and social media channels for updates on the schedule and team news.
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