In this highly anticipated Serie A matchup, Lecce faces off against Sassuolo at the Stadio Via del Mare on Friday night.
After an exceptional start to the season, Lecce faced tougher challenges against Juventus and Napoli in recent matches, causing a dip in their standings. Meanwhile, Sassuolo continues to struggle with inconsistency.
Match Analysis
Lecce showcased their prowess early in the season, amassing an impressive 11 points from their first five matches, securing three consecutive home wins against Lazio, Salernitana, and Genoa.
This impressive feat swiftly equaled their total home victories from the previous season, where they struggled with only three wins in 19 home games—a performance that ranked among the division’s lowest.
Although Lecce endured losses in their last two outings, they still hold a position in the European places after seven matches, a significant improvement compared to their slow start last season when they failed to secure a win in their initial six Serie A matches.
A fixture against Sassuolo, a team that often falters against sides they’re expected to outperform, offers Lecce an opportunity to regain momentum.
Sassuolo’s recent form has been enigmatic, defeating powerhouse teams like Juventus but struggling against lower-ranked opponents.
After a surprising 4-2 loss to newly-promoted Frosinone, they bounced back with an impressive victory over Juventus.
Key player Domenico Berardi played a pivotal role, guiding Sassuolo to a notable win against Inter Milan, ending their unbeaten run.
Despite Sassuolo’s inconsistent performances, the return of Berardi fuels optimism among fans.
After a lackluster 13th-place finish last season, Sassuolo aims for a better position this time.
Serie A Form
Lecce: D W D W L L
Sassuolo: L W L W W L
Team News
Lecce will have Mohamed Kaba back in the matchday squad after his absence in the previous match against Napoli due to a late sending-off against Juventus.
However, Lameck Banda and Kastriot Dermaku will miss the game due to thigh injuries.
On the other side, Sassuolo will look to Berardi for inspiration, as he has contributed to five goals in five games since his return to the side.
He will flank Andrea Pinamonti, who has also had a fine start with five goals in eight appearances.
Uruguayan forward Agustin Alvarez remains Sassuolo’s only absentee due to a knee injury sustained in May.
Predicted Lineups
Lecce Possible Starting Lineup:
Falcone;
Gendrey, Pongracic, Baschirotto, Gallo;
Blin, Ramadani, Rafia;
Almqvist, Krstovic, Gabriel Strefezza
Sassuolo Possible Starting Lineup:
Consigli;
Toljan, Erlic, Ferrari, Vina;
Boloca, Bajrami, Matheus Henrique;
Berardi, Pinamonti, Lauriente
Prediction: Lecce 1-2 Sassuolo
Sassuolo has a favorable history against Lecce, having never lost in their six previous meetings, including a double win last season with two 1-0 victories.
Despite Lecce’s recent setbacks, Sassuolo’s unpredictability and strong record against their opponents make them slight favorites in this matchup.
