The Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo will be the stage for a pivotal Serie A encounter on Monday evening as bottom-dwellers Venezia welcome struggling Lecce in a match that could have significant implications for both sides’ survival hopes.
Venezia find themselves in dire straits, anchored to the foot of the Serie A table after a disappointing start to the season. Eusebio Di Francesco’s men have managed just two victories across all competitions since their promotion via the Serie B playoffs. Their most recent outing saw them squander an early lead against Parma, eventually succumbing to a 2-1 defeat at home.
The Lagunari have developed an alarming habit of relinquishing advantages, having dropped 14 points from winning positions this season. Their defensive frailties, particularly from set-pieces, have been a major concern, with only Cagliari matching their tally of nine goals conceded from dead-ball situations.
Lecce arrive in Venice with a fresh face at the helm following the dismissal of Luca Gotti. The well-traveled Marco Giampaolo takes charge, becoming only the third coach in Serie A history to manage 10 different top-flight clubs. However, Giampaolo faces a monumental task in reviving a Lecce side that has yet to find the net in away fixtures this season.
The Giallorossi’s offensive woes are stark, having scored a mere five goals in 12 matches – their worst attacking output since 1990 and the lowest tally across Europe’s top five leagues this term.
Venezia’s home form could prove decisive in this encounter. Both of their victories this season have come at the Penzo, and their performance on home soil will likely determine their fate in the relegation battle.
Conversely, Lecce will hope that the change in management sparks an immediate turnaround in their fortunes. Giampaolo’s experience in Serie A could provide the tactical acumen needed to secure a positive result away from home.
Team News
Venezia boss Di Francesco has the luxury of a fully fit squad at his disposal. The attacking trident of Gianluca Busio, Gaetano Oristanio, and Joel Pohjanpalo is expected to lead the line for the hosts. Pohjanpalo, in particular, has been crucial at home, netting three of his four league goals at the Penzo this season.
For Lecce, Giampaolo may look to shake things up in his debut. The absence of Lameck Banda due to injury could see Santiago Pierotti, who scored in the recent draw with Empoli, given a starting berth. The visitors will also be without Medon Berisha, Kevin Bonifazi, Balthazar Pierret, and Rares Burnete.
Expected Starting XIs
Venezia: Stankovic; Candela, Idzes, Svoboda; Zampano, Duncan, Nicolussi Caviglia, Haps; Busio, Oristanio; Pohjanpa
Lecce: Falcone; Guilbert, Gaspar, Baschirotto, Gallo; Coulibaly, Ramadani; Dorgu, Rafia, Pierotti; Krstovic
Match Prediction
Given Venezia’s stronger home record and Lecce’s struggles on the road, the hosts may have a slight edge. However, the unpredictable nature of relegation battles and the potential impact of a new manager make this a difficult match to call.
A closely fought contest is anticipated, with Venezia potentially edging out a narrow victory. The final score could be 2-1 in favour of the home side, but don’t be surprised if Lecce’s new managerial appointment inspires an improved performance.
Prediction: Venezia 2-1 Lecce
