Juventus Soars to Serie A Summit with 3-0 Win Over Lecce

 Juventus Soars to Serie A Summit with 3-0 Win Over Lecce

Dušan Vlahović of Juventus headers the ball during the Serie A TIM match between US Lecce and Juventus at Stadio Via del Mare on January 21, 2024 in Lecce, Italy.(Image-Getty)

On Sunday, Juventus secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Lecce, with Dusan Vlahovic netting two goals in the second half and Gleison Bremer sealing the win with a late header. This triumph propelled Juventus to the top of Serie A with 52 points, surpassing second-placed Inter Milan by one point, who were inactive in the league due to their involvement in the Italian Supercup. Lecce currently holds the 14th position in the standings with 21 points. Juventus extended their unbeaten streak to 16 league matches.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri expressed optimism about their Scudetto chances, stating, "There is nothing impossible in football. We must have that belief in our minds that we can do something extraordinary and make the seemingly impossible become possible." Allegri emphasized the importance of giving their best and acknowledging opponents' efforts if they outperform.

Despite early attempts, Juventus faced resistance from Lecce defender Nikola Krstovic, who thwarted Weston McKennie's header on the goal line. The deadlock was broken in the 59th minute when Vlahovic skillfully directed the ball into the far corner. Vlahovic extended the lead nine minutes later, redirecting McKennie's header destined for the net. Reflecting on his performance, Vlahovic credited the team's effort, expressing happiness and a desire to continue in the same vein.

Bremer sealed the victory by leaping over Lecce's defense and heading in a set piece five minutes from time. In stoppage time, Lecce's Nicola Sansone came close to scoring a consolation goal, but Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made a crucial one-handed save to preserve the clean sheet.