Serie A: Cheddira on massive Lecce win- “We gave the fans joy”

Lecce striker Walid Cheddira’s first goal for the club could not have come at a better time Friday, with his second half strike standing as the match-winner to give the Serie A relegation fighters a crucial 2-1 victory at Pisa.

After the 2022 World Cup veteran set up Zambian international Lameck Banda to open the scoring for the visitors early in the second half, a quick response arrived from the hosts through former Algerian international Mehdi Leris.

Cheddira produces at a crucial moment in Serie A campaign

With a half hour remaining, both teams knew that the result could be decisive in their respective fights to maintain top flight football next season. But it was Cheddira, on loan from Napoli, who produced the decisive moment.

Receiving a pass from following Santiago Pierotti’s excellent run in the 65th minute, the former Bari star showed his poaching instincts with a powerful finish. The victory moved Lecce four points clear of the drop zone while confirming Pisa’s relegation to Serie B.

The emotion was clear on the face of the former Atlas Lion, who has endured a difficult period since joining Napoli with several loan spells after failing to impress at the club.

 

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In comments to DAZN following the match, Cheddira explained what the goal meant to him:

“I was moved, it was a huge emotion. We make so many sacrifices, everyone wants the win and the points. We work hard to give them a thrill. After these days of retreat, we gave them joy. After the goal, I said thank you, Allah.”

“Was I about to be substituted? I didn’t notice. The goal came after a performance marked by unity of purpose, which has always been there. I’m proud of the team. I dedicate it to my wife and family, who are close to me.”

It was his second goal from thirty league matches this season, and his first goal contributions for Lecce after spending the first half of the campaign at Sassuolo before embarking on his latest loan adventure.

After thirteen matches with the club without a goal until Friday, Cheddira is sure to play a role when the Apulian club host Italian giants Juventus next Saturday.