Juventus welcome Lecce to the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Saturday, January 3, 2026, for Matchday 18 of the 2025/26 Serie A season. Kick-off is at 17:00 UTC (18:00 CET). The Bianconeri aim to extend their impressive recent form into the new year, while Lecce face a tough challenge in their battle against relegation.
Current Form and Standings
Juventus (5th place, ~32 points after 17 matches) have found their stride under Luciano Spalletti, winning four consecutive matches across all competitions heading into 2026. Their defense has been particularly solid, conceding just a few goals in recent outings and keeping multiple clean sheets. The team is just one point off fourth place and pushing for a Champions League spot.
Lecce (16th place, 16 points after 16-17 matches) are hovering just above the relegation zone with a four-point buffer. Their form has been inconsistent, with recent results including wins over lower-table sides but heavy defeats like a 3-0 loss to Como. Lecce boast the league’s weakest attack, scoring only 11 goals so far, and have struggled on the road.
Team News and Injuries
Juventus: Several key players are sidelined, including striker Dusan Vlahovic (adductor injury), defenders Federico Gatti, Daniele Rugani, and Juan Cabal, plus others like Carlo Pinsoglio. Francisco Conceição may return, providing a boost in attack.
Lecce: Multiple absences due to injuries (e.g., Tete Morente, Medon Berisha, Filip Marchwinski) and doubts over players recovering from illness or other issues.
Potential Lineups
Juventus (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Openda
Key players to watch: Kenan Yildiz (in sparkling form) and Loïs Openda up top.
Lecce (4-2-3-1 or similar): Falcone; Veiga (or alternative), Gaspar, Gabriel, Gallo; Kaba, Ramadani; Pierotti, Helgason/Sottil, Sottil/Pierotti; Stulic
Lecce will likely focus on defensive solidity and counter-attacks.
Score Prediction
Juventus are heavy favorites at home against a struggling Lecce side with blunt attack. Expect a controlled performance from the hosts, leading to a comfortable victory and likely clean sheet.
Predicted Score: Juventus 2-0 Lecce
