Lecce outclass Udinese as Di Francesco hails his side’s best display

Lecce outclassed Udinese 3-0 at the Bluenergy Stadium. Eusebio Di Francesco called it the best performance of his side since he took charge, while also defending Willem Geubbels, who did not score. Jamil Siebert sealed the victory in the 86th minute.

Di Francesco was pleased with his players’ approach and the chances they created to extend their advantage. “I would gladly make even more mistakes if the results were like this. Today we had chances, including opportunities to help our forwards grow. We played a great game, including offensively,” he said. He preferred to celebrate the team’s performance and mentality rather than dwell on errors: “It was a great game from everyone.”

The coach also explained that he had changed Lecce’s pressing to counter Udinese’s system, which he said makes it difficult to close down attacking midfielders. “We changed our pressing patterns, and I saw in the players a desire to go out and win. Matches are prepared during the week,” he said, comparing the system with Roma’s.

Di Francesco also backed Willem Geubbels despite his failure to find the net. “Some of you might give him a four or a five, but I thought he played a great game,” he said. The result, he added, should build confidence, though consistent performances matter more than a single win.

Kosta Runjaic offered a sharply different assessment of Udinese. He accepted responsibility and called the match the worst performance since he took charge. “We lost the physical duels and lacked intensity. I am responsible for this, but not only for this defeat — also for the others,” he said. He also lamented his side’s lack of aggression and failure to compete for second balls. After their previous match, he had not expected such a poor display.

“Today was not acceptable. We lost duels, we were not aggressive enough on second balls and we made numerous other mistakes. Lecce deserve congratulations,” Runjaic added. Udinese must now respond collectively and have an honest discussion about the defeat, which their coach believes is necessary.