Lecce edged past Udinese with a dramatic 2-1 victory at the Stadio Ettore Giardiniero, thanks to a late strike by Lameck Banda in the 90th minute. The Serie A encounter saw early sparks from Omri Gandelman, who put Lecce ahead in the fifth minute, only for Udinese’s Oumar Solet to level the score with a 26th-minute penalty.
Gandelman Sets the Early Tone
The match kicked off with intensity as Lecce's Omri Gandelman found the net just five minutes in, setting the stage for a competitive afternoon. Despite Lecce's early lead, Udinese responded decisively, with Solet converting a penalty in the 26th minute after a defensive misstep from the hosts.
Banda's Moment of Magic
As the second half unfolded, both teams grappled for control, with substitutions from Udinese attempting to sway the momentum. However, it was Lecce's own tactical adjustments that bore fruit, culminating in Banda’s game-winning goal as the match teetered on a draw. His late strike, assisted by Nikola Stulic, was the climax of a fiercely contested match.
Statistical Insight
Lecce's performance was marked by their 53% possession and 16 total shots, of which five were on target, showcasing their attacking intent. In contrast, Udinese managed just one shot on goal despite their aggressive play, committing 21 fouls throughout the match. Lameck Banda's high player rating of 8 exemplified his influence on the pitch.
Looking Ahead
This win strengthens Lecce’s position as they look to climb the Serie A standings, reflecting an overperformance compared to recent form predictions. Meanwhile, Udinese will need to regroup after this setback as they aim to maintain their own upward trajectory in the league.