Three points separate both sides from the early league lead

Lecce welcome AS Roma to Stadio Via del Mare on Monday, August 31, with both teams carrying a winning start into the second round of Serie A. The match begins at 16:30 UTC and will be refereed by D. Chiffi. Lecce sit seventh after one game, while Roma are fourth; both have three points and a perfect record, although AC Milan lead the table with six.

Winning momentum meets contrasting shapes

Lecce’s 4-3-3 has already produced one victory, and the formation gives them a clear attacking structure with three forwards supported by a midfield three. At home, they will look to make the most of the venue and turn their positive opening result into another strong start. Their league form is listed as a win, but their home-season figures remain at zero wins, zero draws and zero losses, with no home goals or clean sheets recorded in the available data.

Roma’s preferred 3-4-2-1 offers a different tactical picture. The shape can provide a front three through its central striker and two attacking players, while the four-man midfield gives the team width and numbers in central areas. Roma also arrive after a win, and their stronger early league position reflects a goal difference of four, compared with Lecce’s two. Their away record is likewise listed at zero wins, zero draws and zero losses, with no away goals, goals conceded or clean sheets recorded so far.

Goal threats and squad concerns

D. Malen is Roma’s leading attacking reference after scoring three goals in one appearance. N. Pisilli has added one goal in one appearance, giving Roma further early momentum in front of goal. Lecce’s listed scorers are Tiago Gabriel and Olaf Gorter, each with one goal in one appearance, so both will carry responsibility for maintaining the hosts’ threat.

Lecce could be affected by the absence or uncertainty around L. Banda, listed as inactive, and A. Gallo, listed with an injury. Roma will be without M. Bah because of a knee injury and L. Pellegrini because of a thigh injury, while D. Rensch is questionable with a muscle injury. Those issues may encourage both coaches to protect their structure, particularly in the opening stages, rather than commit too many players forward.

A chance to stay close to AC Milan

With the teams level on points, the result offers an immediate opportunity to keep pace with the leaders and establish early-season momentum. Roma’s higher ranking and superior goal difference may make them the more confident side, but Lecce’s home setting and 4-3-3 can test the visitors’ defensive organisation.

Prediction: Lecce 1-2 AS Roma. Roma’s early scoring numbers and higher league position give them the edge, though Lecce’s home advantage should keep the contest close.