The 2026–27 Serie A season officially kicks off on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with Udinese hosting Como at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine.
Broadcaster Coverage and Where to Watch Udinese vs. Como
For supporters looking to follow the action live, the fixture is part of the opening weekend’s co-exclusive broadcast rights package. The match will be broadcast live on television through both DAZN and select Sky Sport channels, including Sky Sport Calcio, Sky Sport 4K, and Sky Sport 252. Unlike concurrent matches restricted to single networks, this fixture receives dual platform exposure. Internet users can stream the encounter via the DAZN app and website, or through NOW, Sky’s dedicated streaming service. Legal, full-match viewing requires a paid subscription to one of these platforms, as no free terrestrial broadcast has been scheduled for the opening round.
Pre-Season Form and Squad Preparations
Udinese enters the fixture following a mixed summer testing schedule under manager Kosta Runjaić. The Friulian side recorded a 2–2 draw against NK Istra, a defeat to Swansea, and a 3–3 stalemate with Mainz, before securing the FVG Cup through victories over Nottingham Forest and Barcelona. Their competitive readiness was further confirmed by a 1–0 win over Padova in the thirty-second finals of the Coppa Italia.
Meanwhile, Como’s preparation under manager Cesc Fàbregas featured notable international tests. The club earned a 2–2 draw with Paris FC, defeated AlUla SC, and claimed the Como Cup following a win over Famalicão. Their trip to England provided stiffer tests, ending in a 1–1 draw against Arsenal—subsequently decided by penalties—and a 2–0 defeat to Liverpool, which gave technical staff clear indicators ahead of a campaign that also features upcoming Champions League commitments.
Historical Head-to-Head and Venue Record
Historical data across 21 previous Serie A meetings indicates a closely contested rivalry, though Udinese holds a slight historical edge with 9 victories to Como’s 6, alongside 6 draws. Venue history heavily favors the hosts: in 10 prior matches played in Udine, the bianconeri remain undefeated with 7 wins and 3 draws. The most recent league encounters finished in a 0–0 stalemate at the Bluenergy Stadium, preceded by a 1–0 victory for Como in January.
Confirmed Starting Lineups and Match Officials
Alberto Ruben Arena of the Torre del Greco section will referee the match, assisted on the sidelines by linesmen Mondin and Laudato, with Chiffi serving as fourth official. Video Assistant Referee (VAR) duties are assigned to Camplone, supported by AVAR Rutella.
Both clubs released their official matchday formations ahead of kickoff:
- Udinese (3-4-2-1): Okoye; Abankwah, Palma, Solet; Vojvoda, Karlstrom, Piotrowski, Kamara; Zaniolo, Ekkelenkamp; Gueye. (Coach: Runjaic)
- Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Couto, Ramon, Chalobah, Kaiki; Perrone, Milla; Rodriguez, Paz, Baturina; Douvikas. (Coach: Fabregas)
What Comes Next
Following the final whistle at the Bluenergy Stadium, both squads will turn their focus toward the second weekend of the Serie A calendar, where official league tables begin to take shape. Supporters can check official club channels and the Lega Serie A portal for immediate post-match reactions, official disciplinary reports, and ticket information for upcoming rounds.
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