Lecce 1-1 Juventus: Rebic's last-gasp leveller steals point for hosts
Ante Rebic netted a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time, securing a 1-1 draw for Lecce against Juventus, who, despite the setback, extended their unbeaten streak in Serie A to 22 matches.
The Bianconeri squandered a prime opportunity to take the lead early in the match when Khephren Thuram inexplicably shot wide with the goal at his mercy following a cross from Kenan Yildıiz.
Juventus largely controlled the tempo of the game, with Francisco Conceicao making a strong run towards goal after intercepting a careless cross-field pass from Patrick Dorgu, only to see his curling shot strike the post.
When Timothy Weah had a goal disallowed for offside, it seemed inevitable that Thiago Motta’s team would score first.
Manuel Locatelli then attempted a long-range shot that was deflected, while Lecce maintained a solid defensive structure. Marco Giampaolo’s side appeared content to defend, managing only one shot on goal as they approached halftime.
The hosts registered their first shot on target shortly after the break, prompting Mattia Perin to save Nikola Krstovic’s header from a corner.
The Giallorossi supporters were given further hope as additional attempts from Tete Morente, Krstovic, and Dorgu forced Perin into action, revealing Juventus's defensive vulnerabilities. Lecce found more success down the right flank, with Krstovic sending a first-time shot wide from Dorgu’s cross.
However, Juventus struck first, delivering a harsh blow to Lecce, with a goal that Kialonda Gaspar would prefer to forget.
The Angolan inadvertently redirected Andrea Cambiaso’s shot past a wrong-footed Wladimiro Falcone. Teun Koopmeiners sought to capitalize on the momentum moments later, but Falcone successfully denied the Dutchman’s attempt at his near post.
A lackluster display from Motta's team appeared sufficient to secure all three points until Rebic scored from a cross by Nikola Krstovic, igniting a wave of excitement within the Stadio Via del Mare.
As a result, Juventus remains in sixth place after recording their eighth draw in 14 league matches, while Lecce occupies the 16th position, holding a two-point advantage over the relegation zone.
SportsLigue