Lecce marked a promising start under the guidance of their newly appointed coach, Luca Gotti, with a favorable debut against a struggling Salernitana side. The match saw an own goal by Norbert Gyomber, enabling Lecce to secure a valuable three points against the league’s bottom-placed team.
This victory came on the heels of Salernitana’s decision to dismiss their former coach, Roberto D’Aversa, following an altercation with Verona striker Thomas Henry. Additionally, Salernitana’s dismal performance in recent matches, with nine defeats in the last 12 rounds, had plunged them perilously close to the relegation zone. Lameck Banda was sidelined due to suspension, while Mohamed Kaba and Kastriot Dermaku were unavailable due to injuries. Consequently, Salernitana deviated from their usual 4-3-3 formation, opting instead for a 4-4-2 setup. Furthermore, the absence of Grigoris Kastanos due to suspension and Boulaye Dia’s exclusion after refusing to participate from the bench added to Salernitana’s challenges.
Despite an aggressive start from the home team, highlighted by Antonio Candreva and Lorenzo Pirola’s early attempts on goal, it was Lecce who seized the lead with their first meaningful attack. Valentin Gendrey’s cross found its way to Roberto Piccoli, whose clever flick set up Nikola Krstovic to score from close range.
Salernitana’s goalkeeper, Wladimiro Falcone, faced difficulties dealing with Tchaouna’s powerful volley and Pontus Almqvist’s attempts on goal lacked sufficient power to trouble Lecce’s defense. Meanwhile, Toma Basic’s free kick narrowly missed the target, and Falcone produced an impressive save to deny Giulio Maggiore.
Despite Salernitana’s persistent efforts, including a one-on-one opportunity for Nwankwo Simy, Lecce’s defense held firm. Ultimately, Salernitana’s inability to capitalize on chances proved costly, and Lecce emerged victorious with their first away win of the season.
Salernitana 0-1 Lecce