Juventus's Serie A title aspirations suffered a setback on Saturday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Lecce, a team battling to avoid relegation. The match, played in Turin, saw Jonathan David's failed Panenka penalty attempt become the defining moment, costing Juventus a crucial victory.
Juventus entered the match with high expectations, having won seven of their last eight games in all competitions to close out 2025. However, Lecce proved to be a stubborn opponent, frustrating the home side with resilient defending throughout the game. Lecce's coach, Eusebio Di Francesco, was serving a touchline ban.
The first half saw Juventus creating several chances, with Wladimiro Falcone, Lecce's goalkeeper, in inspired form. Falcone made a one-handed save early on to deny Andrea Cambiaso and later fingertipped a shot from Cambiaso around the post. Jonathan David was unlucky not to score, his header from a Kenan Yildiz cross hitting the upright. Despite Juventus's pressure, it was Lecce who took the lead just before halftime. Lameck Banda fired a shot into the top corner, stunning the home crowd.
Juventus responded quickly after the break, with Weston McKennie leveling the score in the 49th minute. McKennie was well-positioned to capitalize, bringing the game back to parity. The home side pushed for a winner, and in the 89th minute, they were awarded a penalty. Jonathan David stepped up to take the spot-kick, attempting a Panenka-style penalty. However, his effort was easily saved by Falcone, who read the chip and parried the ball away with an outstretched arm.
David's failed penalty summed up Juventus's struggles in the match. Despite creating numerous opportunities, they lacked the clinical finishing needed to secure the win. The draw leaves Juventus fifth in the Serie A standings with 33 points, five points behind leaders Milan, who have played one game less. Lecce, meanwhile, moved to 16th place with 17 points, five points above the relegation zone.
The result was a significant setback for Juventus's title ambitions. With Milan and Inter Milan able to extend their lead, Juventus will need to improve their finishing and show more resilience in future matches. For Lecce, the draw was a valuable point in their fight for survival, showcasing their defensive solidity and ability to capitalize on their opportunities.
