The upcoming Coppa Italia clash between Lecce and Mantova is set to be an exciting encounter as both teams aim to make a mark in the tournament.
Here's an in-depth analysis of the teams' form, potential lineups, and a match prediction.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Lecce finished the 2023-24 Serie A season in 14th place, narrowly avoiding relegation. Despite a lacklustre end to their league campaign, they managed to retain their top-flight status.
Their pre-season, however, was mixed, beginning with a solid 3-0 victory over Werder Bremen, but followed by losses to Galatasaray, Huddersfield Town, and Nice. Under the guidance of coach Luca Gotti, Lecce will be looking to start their competitive season on a high.
Mantova, on the other hand, comes into this game with momentum, having earned promotion to Serie B last season. They were the top scorers in their regional division, a testament to their attacking prowess.
Their Coppa Italia journey started positively with a 2-1 win over Torres, and coach Davide Possanzini has his team playing an attractive brand of football modelled after his mentor Roberto De Zerbi.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Lecce has seen some significant changes this summer, losing key players like Gabriel Strefezza and Marin Pongracic.
However, new signings such as Kialonda Gaspar, Filip Marchwinski, and Tete Morente are expected to make their competitive debuts, providing fresh energy and creativity.
Mantova has strengthened their squad with experienced forwards Leonardo Mancuso and Mattia Aramu.
Both are likely to feature in the starting XI, with winger Antonio Fiori, who scored in their last match, expected to play a crucial role.
Lecce's possible lineup: Falcone; Gendrey, Baschirotto, Gaspar, Gallo; Ramadani, Pierret; Oudin, Marchwinski, Morente; Krstovic.
Mantova's possible lineup: Festa; Brignani, Panizzi, Maggioni, Redolfi; Trimboli, Burrai, Muroni; Fiori, Mancuso, Aramu.
Match Prediction
Given Lecce’s superior squad and home advantage, they are the favorites to win this match. However, Mantova’s attacking style could make this an entertaining and closely contested game.
A 3-2 victory for Lecce seems likely as they begin their Coppa Italia campaign.
Lecce 
Mantova 
