As Serie A's dramatic season edges closer to its conclusion, the upcoming clash between Lecce and Udinese on May 13, 2024, at Stadio Comunale Via del Mare, carries significant relegation survival stakes.
Here, we provide a detailed preview of the predicted lineups and the dynamics influencing both teams as they prepare for this crucial encounter.
Lecce’s Strategic Composition
Under the guidance of head coach Luca Gotti, Lecce has demonstrated remarkable late-season resilience.
The team, needing just one point to secure Serie A safety, comes off a series of strong performances, including a commendable draw against Cagliari.
With Roberto Piccoli suspended due to a recent yellow card, Remi Oudin is expected to assume a more advanced role alongside the in-form Nikola Krstovic, who has been directly involved in goals over the past three matches. From the right flank, Pontus Almqvist is anticipated to start, providing width and pace.
Injury woes have not spared Lecce, with Kastriot Dermaku, Mohamed Kaba, and Lameck Banda all out for the season. However, Nicolas Viola might return from a calf injury, adding much-needed depth to the squad.
Predicted Lecce XI
Falcone; Gendrey, Baschirotto, Pongracic, Gallo; Almqvist, Ramadani, Blin, Dorgu; Oudin, Krstovic;
Udinese’s Tactical Setup
For Udinese, coached by the recently appointed Fabio Cannavaro, the situation appears more dire, sitting seven points behind Lecce.
The team has struggled to convert draws into wins, with a record 18 draws this season reflecting their difficulties in sealing games. Key players Enzo Ebosse and Gerard Deulofeu remain sidelined with long-term injuries, impacting team dynamics significantly.
However, Nehuen Perez and Martin Payero return from suspensions, likely bolstering the defence and midfield.
Up front, top scorer Lorenzo Lucca, despite a dry spell, will aim to end his goal drought, supported by either Brenner or the potentially returning captain Roberto Pereyra, depending on his recovery from a minor injury.
Predicted Udinese XI
Okoye; Perez, Bijol, Kristensen; Ehizibue, Payero, Walace, Kamara; Samardzic, Pereyra; Lucca.
FAQ
When is the Lecce vs Udinese match scheduled? The match is scheduled for May 13, 2024, at 5:30 PM UK time.
Where will the match take place? The match will be held at Stadio Comunale Via del Mare in Lecce.
What is at stake in this match for Lecce and Udinese? Lecce needs just one point to ensure their survival in Serie A, whereas Udinese is struggling at the bottom, making this match crucial for both teams' efforts to avoid relegation.
Why is Roberto Piccoli not playing in this match? Roberto Piccoli is suspended for this match due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
Who is expected to replace Roberto Piccoli in the lineup? Remi Oudin is expected to move into a more advanced role alongside Nikola Krstovic, with Pontus Almqvist starting on the right flank.
What are the main injury concerns for Lecce and Udinese? For Lecce, Kastriot Dermaku, Mohamed Kaba, and Lameck Banda are out with knee injuries. Udinese will miss Enzo Ebosse and Gerard Deulofeu due to long-term injuries.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Lecce, watch for Nikola Krstovic, who has been directly involved in a goal in each of his last three games. For Udinese, Lorenzo Lucca and captain Roberto Pereyra (if fit) will be crucial.
What is Udinese's form coming into this match? Udinese has been struggling, with only three points from their last seven matches, featuring a high number of draws.
How have recent encounters between Lecce and Udinese turned out? Lecce has been undefeated in their last four league matches against Udinese, marking a shift after losing five of the previous six encounters.
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