Milan sought to capitalize on Lecce’s recent struggles, and Olivier Giroud capitalized on a swift team play, netting before the half-hour mark. Tijjani Reijnders added to the lead with his debut Diavolo goal. However, Lecce, through Nicola Sansone and Lameck Banda, retaliated in the second half. Despite Roberto Piccoli’s late disallowed goal, Lecce managed to halt its downward trend.
Stefano Pioli’s Milan, coming off a midweek win against PSG, needed a Serie A victory urgently. Facing an early setback with Rafael Leao’s injury, Noah Okafor stepped in and contributed to the offensive efforts. Giroud and Reijnders found the net in the 28th and 35th minutes, respectively. Reijnders missed a brace opportunity, hitting the post, while Banda’s chance was thwarted by a remarkable save from Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan.
Despite Okafor’s attempt to extend Milan’s lead, Lecce bounced back. Sansone and Banda scored in quick succession, putting Milan on the back foot. Sansone nearly secured a comeback, hitting the post in the 84th minute. Tempers flared as Giroud received a red card for vehemently protesting a handball decision.
Late drama unfolded as Lecce seemed to secure a last-gasp victory with Piccoli’s goal, but VAR ruled a foul on Malick Thiaw, denying Lecce a dramatic turnaround.