Juventus climb to seventh as McKennie and Douglas Luiz Soares deliver victory at Lecce

Juventus ended their recent run of disappointing results with a 2-0 win away to Lecce in the Italian league on Sunday.

Weston McKennie put Luciano Spalletti’s side ahead in the 30th minute at Stadio Via del Mare, before Douglas Luiz Soares doubled their advantage 11 minutes later with a fine strike.

The result gave Juventus a much-needed response after their heavy league defeat by Lazio and a draw against Rennes in the Europa League. They had travelled to Lecce aiming to restore confidence and repair their relationship with supporters after those setbacks.

McKennie’s opener provided the visitors with control of the match. The American midfielder finished to give Juventus the lead midway through the first half, and his team then strengthened their position before the interval when Douglas Luiz Soares added a second in the 41st minute.

The Brazilian’s goal gave Juventus a comfortable advantage at half-time and left Lecce with a difficult task after the break.

Lecce attempted to remain in the contest during the second half, but Juventus protected their two-goal lead and saw out the match without conceding. The victory secured three important points and brought an end to Juventus’ recent difficulties in the competition.

Juventus now have 14 points from eight matches and moved up to seventh place in the Italian league table. Lecce remain on nine points and sit 12th.

The win represents an important lift for Spalletti’s team as they look to correct their recent course and close the gap on the leading positions in the coming rounds. Their immediate priority was to return to winning ways, and goals from McKennie and Douglas Luiz Soares ensured they achieved that in Lecce.

Juventus had been under pressure to respond following the defeat by Lazio and the European draw with Rennes. Instead, they produced the decisive moments before half-time and then managed the advantage effectively after the interval.

For Lecce, the loss leaves them with nine points in 12th position, while Juventus’ third victory of the league campaign moves them closer to the leading group.