Italian clubs struggle in Champions League opening rounds

Italian Serie A representatives have faced a difficult start to the Champions League season, securing only one victory in their first eight matches. Following the initial round, where debutant Como secured a 4-1 win against Leipzig while Roma drew with Fenerbahce, Inter and Napoli suffered losses to Real Madrid and Arsenal respectively.

The second round resulted in defeats for all four Italian participants. Inter lost 3-4 to Club Brugge, Napoli fell 1-3 to Villarreal, and Como was defeated 2-3 by Feyenoord. Roma experienced a significant turnaround, losing 3-4 to Real Madrid after leading 3-1 until the 58th minute.

Across the first two rounds, the Italian clubs have accumulated only four points from eight matches, recording one win, one draw, and six losses. This performance has raised questions regarding the current competitive strength of Italian football on the European stage.