As Serie A's 2023/2024 season nears its end, the stakes are high for the upcoming clash between Lecce and Udinese.
Scheduled for May 13, 2024, at the Stadio Comunale Via del Mare, this match could very well dictate the survival odds for both teams. Here’s a comprehensive preview including predictions, team news, and form analysis.
Form Guide and Previous Encounters
Lecce
Lecce is on the verge of securing their Serie A status for another year. They have found form at a crucial time, remaining unbeaten in six of their last seven matches.
The strategic mid-season appointment of Luca Gotti as head coach seems to have revitalised the team, with Lecce securing important points, including a recent 1-1 draw against Cagliari.
Lecce’s resilience in the late game has been notable, having earned the most points (16) from goals scored in the final 20 minutes of their games this season.
Udinese
In contrast, Udinese are entrenched in the relegation battle, sitting seven points below Lecce.
They have become Italy's draw specialists, with a total of 18 draws this season — a record in Europe’s top five leagues.
Their inability to convert draws into wins could potentially seal their fate in Serie A.
Team News
Lecce Team News
Lecce will be without Roberto Piccoli, who is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
Remi Oudin will likely step forward to support the in-form Nikola Krstovic, who has been directly involved in goals in his last three appearances.
Injuries will keep Kastriot Dermaku, Mohamed Kaba, and Lameck Banda out for the remainder of the season, though Nicolas Viola might return from a calf problem.
Udinese Team News
Udinese will miss key players due to injuries, including Gerard Deulofeu and Enzo Ebosse. However, Nehuen Perez and Martin Payero will return from their suspensions.
Top scorer Lorenzo Lucca, struggling with form, will look to make an impact, supported by either Brenner or the fit-again captain Roberto Pereyra.
Prediction
Given the form and the stakes, a draw seems a likely outcome, particularly as Lecce only needs a point to secure safety.
Udinese's desperation for a win might not be enough against a solid Lecce side at home.
We expect a tight game, possibly ending in a 1-1 scoreline, mirroring their previous encounter this season.
FAQ
When is the Lecce vs Udinese match? The match is scheduled for Monday, May 13, 2024, at 5:30 PM UK time.
Where will the game be played? It will be held at Stadio Comunale Via del Mare, Lecce's home ground.
What does Lecce need to stay in Serie A? Lecce needs just one point from this match to ensure their survival in Serie A for another season.
What is at stake for Udinese in this match? Udinese is currently in the relegation zone. They need a win to boost their chances of staying in Serie A, as they are seven points behind Lecce.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Lecce, Nikola Krstovic has been a crucial player, having been directly involved in goals in his last three matches. For Udinese, captain Roberto Pereyra, if fit, could play a pivotal role.
Are there any significant absences for this match? Lecce will be missing Roberto Piccoli due to suspension, and several players due to injuries. Udinese will be without Gerard Deulofeu and Enzo Ebosse among others due to injuries.
What was the outcome of the previous encounter between these two teams? The last time they met in the 2023/2024 season, the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
How has Udinese's form been leading up to this match? Udinese has struggled, drawing a significant number of matches and failing to convert those into wins, which has left them in a precarious position in the league.
Lecce 
Udinese 
