Date: 25 July 2026
Competition: International Club Friendly
Venue: Stadio Via del Mare, Lecce

Match Report

Serie A side Lecce and Croatian top‑flight club NK Istra 1961 shared the spoils in a 2-2 thriller at the Stadio Via del Mare. The friendly provided both teams with valuable minutes and a chance to experiment with tactics ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.

First Half – Lecce Dominate but Trail

Lecce started brightly, controlling large spells of possession. However, against the run of play, NK Istra 1961 struck first. A swift break down the right flank ended with a precise cross tapped in at the far post in the 19th minute. Lecce equalised just before half‑time when a powerful header from a corner beat the Istra goalkeeper, making it 1-1 at the break.

Second Half – End‑to‑End Action

The second half saw both sides make wholesale changes. Istra regained the lead in the 58th minute with a well‑struck volley. Lecce pushed forward aggressively, and their pressure told in the 76th minute when a deflected shot from the edge of the box wrong‑footed the keeper to make it 2-2. The final minutes saw chances at both ends, but neither side could find a winner.

Standout Performers

• Lecce’s midfield general: Controlled the tempo and provided the assist for the second equaliser.
• Istra’s forwards: Two clinical finishes showed their attacking threat.

For Lecce, the draw highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that need addressing before the Serie A season starts. NK Istra 1961, meanwhile, will be encouraged by their ability to compete with stronger opposition on the road.