Dusan Vlahović and Lloyd Kelly have emphasized that Juventus’ destiny for a Champions League spot is now within their control following a crucial 1-0 away victory against Lecce. Both players highlighted the team’s resilience, particularly in the closing stages of the match.
Vlahović marked his return to the starting lineup, his first since a significant adductor injury sustained on November 29th, by scoring just 12 seconds into the game. He skillfully controlled a cross from Andrea Cambiaso to finish from close range. Although another goal was disallowed for offside and he was involved in an offside situation that led to Pierre Kalulu’s disallowed goal, the scoreline remained 1-0 at the Stadio Via del Mare.
This goal was a significant moment for Vlahović, who had recently scored his first goal of 2026 in a 1-1 draw against Verona after coming off the bench following another injury setback.
“It’s understandable, I hadn’t started for a while and lacked the usual rhythm and match fitness,” Vlahović stated to Sky Sport Italia. “The most important thing was the result; we secured the three points, and we absolutely must win the remaining two matches.”
This win places additional pressure on Milan ahead of their upcoming match against Atalanta, as well as on Roma, who face Parma. Juventus’ final two fixtures are against fierce rivals Fiorentina and Torino.
“It’s all in our hands now. If we win our remaining games, then no one else can influence the outcome. We understand the stakes, so we must go out there and win,” Vlahović added.
The victory temporarily moves Juventus into third place, ahead of Milan, who play Atalanta tomorrow. This win also extends their lead over Roma in the race for a Champions League qualification spot.
“We knew we needed to make some changes from the last game,” Kelly commented to Sky Sport Italia. “I believe we demonstrated resilience today, especially in the final minutes. We need to see these games through and fight for each other, which I think we did today.”
“We are aware that other teams have their fixtures, but we cannot focus on them. Our concentration must remain on ourselves. We are delighted with this victory, and now we can relax before focusing on the next two games.”