A crucial goal by Michael Folorunsho, deflected off Federico Baschirotto, proved decisive as Verona managed to ascend out of the relegation zone, overtaking Lecce in the league standings.
Recent outcomes from other fixtures this weekend intensified the pressure on both teams engaged in the relegation battle. Lecce suffered a setback as Mohamed Kaba sustained a season-ending injury with a torn ACL, while Hellas Verona had Pawel Dawidowicz suspended.
Despite Napoli-owned Folorunsho’s missed opportunity from a free header and Lorenzo Montipò’s save from Lameck Banda’s shot, Verona secured the lead through an instance of fortuitousness. Tomas Suslov’s pass found Folorunsho, whose shot deflected off Baschirotto and found the bottom corner, eluding Wladimiro Falcone’s fingertips.
Lecce was initially awarded a penalty in the 23rd minute after Giangiacomo Magnani’s hand made contact with Lameck Banda’s shot. However, the decision was overturned following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, determining that Magnani’s arms were positioned closely to his body, making it impossible for him to avoid the contact.
Throughout the match, Lecce mounted several attacks, earning numerous corners, and creating scoring opportunities. However, their efforts were thwarted by Verona’s goalkeeper, Lorenzo Montipò, who made key saves, including denying Nikola Krstovic’s header just before halftime.
Despite Lecce’s continued offensive efforts in the second half, they failed to convert any clear-cut chances into goals. A moment of confusion arose when Roberto Piccoli accidentally blocked a shot from his own teammate, Krstovic.
The match concluded with a tense altercation between Thomas Henry and Marin Pongracic, resulting in Henry’s dismissal from the field.
Lecce 0-1 Verona