Lecce vs Inter Milan: League Leaders Face Trip to Stadio Via del Mare
London, 21 February 2026 – Inter Milan travel to Puglia today to face Lecce in a Week 26 Serie A fixture that sees the league leaders looking to consolidate their seven-point advantage at the top of the table. Despite their domestic dominance, the Nerazzurri arrive at the Stadio Via del Mare seeking redemption following a difficult midweek period which saw them suffer a 3-1 defeat against Bodo/Glimt in European competition.
Team News: Chivu Rotates Squad Amid Absences
Inter manager Cristian Chivu faces significant selection challenges for today’s encounter. The Nerazzurri will be without captain Lautaro Martinez, while key midfielders Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu are also sidelined. In their absence, Francesco Pio Esposito is expected to partner Marcus Thuram in attack. There are also reports that Manuel Akanji is a doubt for the match, potentially leading to further defensive reshuffling with Stefan de Vrij likely to feature.
Lecce, currently fighting at the opposite end of the table in 17th position, will look to exploit any fatigue in the Inter ranks. The hosts remain the division’s lowest scorers, having managed only 17 goals this season, and face the daunting task of breaking down a defence that has conceded just 21 times in the league.
Key Match Facts and Head-to-Head
The historical record heavily favours the visitors, with Inter winning 12 of the last 15 meetings between the two sides. Lecce’s only two victories over the Nerazzurri in the last 25 years have both occurred on home soil, providing a glimmer of hope for the Giallorossi faithful.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current League Position | Lecce (17th) vs Inter Milan (1st) |
| Goals Scored (Season) | Lecce: 17 | Inter Milan: 60 |
| Goals Conceded (Season) | Lecce: 31 | Inter Milan: 21 |
| Head-to-Head (Last 15) | Inter: 12 Wins | Lecce: 1 Win | 2 Draws |
| Recent Form | Inter have won 7 successive H2Hs without conceding in the last 6. |
| Match Referee | Gianluca Manganiello |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is missing for Inter Milan today?
Inter are without several high-profile players, including star striker Lautaro Martinez and midfield duo Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu. Defender Manuel Akanji is also considered a late fitness doubt.
What is the recent scoring record between these teams?
Inter Milan have been dominant in recent fixtures, winning their last seven consecutive matches against Lecce. Notably, they have kept a clean sheet in the last six meetings between the two clubs.
Where is the match being played?
The match is taking place at the Stadio Via del Mare, the home ground of US Lecce.
Who are the players to watch?
For Inter, wing-back Federico Dimarco has been a primary creative outlet this season with 12 assists. For Lecce, the focus will be on their defensive organisation as they attempt to stop the league’s most potent attack.