Lecce 0-1 AS Roma: Dovbyk on target as Giallorossi hold on for narrow win against hosts

AS Roma achieved their seventh consecutive Serie A victory with a late 1-0 win against Lecce, marking the hosts' fifth straight defeat in the league.

The first half saw a relatively balanced distribution of chances, with Angelino coming closest to scoring within the first nine minutes. The left-back managed to get the ball past goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone but only hit the side-netting with an open goal in sight.

At the other end, Porir Johann Helgason received the ball at the edge of the box and sent a shot narrowly wide of the post. Lecce began to gain confidence as they attempted to play out from the back, but a critical error allowed Manu Kone to intercept the ball right in front of Falcone, who was quick to save the subsequent shot from close range.

Mile Svilar was also tested before halftime, first deflecting Antonino Gallo’s attempt from a tight angle and then securing Jesper Karlsson’s strike.

Following a subdued start to the second half, Nikola Krstovic attempted to energize the game with a daring long-range shot that nearly caught Svilar off guard, as it veered just wide of the post.

Falcone was soon called into action again, first stopping Matías Soule’s long-range effort and then skillfully using his leg to deny Artem Dovbyk at his near post. From the ensuing corner, Gianluca Mancini tapped in a flick-on at the back post, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Nevertheless, the visitors finally broke the deadlock with just 10 minutes remaining, as the dependable Dovbyk cut inside and fired into the bottom corner, marking his 11th league goal of the season.

The 1-0 scoreline has become a recurring theme for Roma, as this marks their fourth such victory in seven matches and their tenth clean sheet in Serie A. This win temporarily elevates them into the European qualification spots, while Lecce remains just outside the relegation zone.

SportsLigue