Lecce vs AC Milan Prediction & Betting Tips (29 August)

As Serie A rolls into its second round, Lecce prepare to host AC Milan at the Stadio Ettore Giardiniero – Via del Mare in what promises to be a tightly contested clash. Lecce enter the match with renewed optimism under returning manager Eusebio Di Francesco, who guided the team to a gritty Coppa Italia win over Juve Stabia and a goalless draw against Genoa in their league opener. However, the Salentini are undergoing a transitional phase, having lost key striker Nikola Krstovic to Atalanta and captain Federico Baschirotto to Cremonese. Their attacking hopes now rest on young Milan loanee Francesco Camarda and Fiorentina’s Riccardo Sottil, both of whom are expected to start.

AC Milan, meanwhile, arrive in Lecce with a blend of ambition and caution. The Rossoneri opened their season with a 2-1 win over Como, but their preparations have been marred by Rafael Leão’s calf injury, which ruled him out of the opener and casts doubt over his availability for this fixture. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri, back at the helm after a turbulent previous season, is serving a suspension and will manage remotely. Milan’s summer signings include Luka Modric and Ardon Jashari, both of whom have added depth and experience to the midfield. Santiago Giménez, who confirmed his commitment to the club amid transfer speculation, is expected to lead the line again after impressing in pre-season and scoring against Bari.

Tactically, Lecce will likely adopt a compact shape, relying on Lassana Coulibaly’s energy in midfield and Camarda’s movement up front to exploit Milan’s high defensive line. Di Francesco’s side has shown resilience, keeping three consecutive clean sheets, but their lack of firepower since Krstovic’s departure remains a concern. Milan, on the other hand, will look to dominate possession and use Christian Pulisic’s creativity to unlock Lecce’s defense. With Modric orchestrating from deep and Estupiñán offering width, Milan’s attacking structure appears more refined than last season’s erratic displays.

Despite Lecce’s home advantage and defensive discipline, Milan’s superior individual quality and tactical flexibility should edge them ahead. Expect a cagey first half, with Lecce possibly striking early through a set piece or counterattack. But Milan’s depth and attacking options should prove decisive in the second half. A 2-1 victory for AC Milan feels like the most plausible outcome—one that reflects both teams’ current trajectories and the subtle margins that define early-season Serie A battles.