Dario Levanto knows how to do it: «May the feat in 1989 be a good omen»

LECCE - «Today I expect a Lecce as motivated as we were on June 25, 1989, in that match against Torino that meant mathematical salvation in the top division». “Pushing” the Giallorossi towards 90 minutes to be played with a knife is Dario Levanto, who was among the protagonists of the match against the Granata that gave the Salento club permanence in the 1988/1989 season. «I remember that mister Mazzone was extraordinary in preparing the match on a mental level - says the former midfielder - La Gazzetta dello Sport headlined “Let's save Torino” and our trainer had the page of the pink one posted in the locker room and on the blackboard on which he gave tactical instructions. Then he told us that we would have all of Italy against us. Once on the pitch, we played like lions. I hope that Baschirotto and his teammates can do the same thing in today's match because winning the full loot is the only way to keep alive the hope of remaining in the top division. There are no other ways."

In 1989, the standings were different from the current one. "Our opponents were in deep water, but we were also in big trouble," Levanto emphasizes. "But by forming one with the fans, we were able to write a beautiful page in the history of Lecce. The hope is that the eleven coached by Giampaolo will beat Torino today and that the success can act as a springboard towards another feat to be framed." The club led by Urbano Cairo has very little to ask of the season that is coming to an end, which will certainly not be remembered by the supporters of "Toro" in positive terms: "This is true, but in football no one gives gifts. In fact, I saw that a photo of the banner displayed at the "Via del Mare" 36 years ago that read "Dear Granata, Licata is waiting for you" was circulated on social media. With reference to the fact that, in case of defeat, for Torino it would have been Serie B. Now the fans ask their favorites to beat Lecce and push them among the cadets. In short, Ricci and his teammates will do their part and it will be up to the Giallorossi to throw heart and soul over the obstacle, with a great performance of character, pride, "hunger"».

According to several insiders, Lecce, as a team that has to fight to maintain its category, is lacking competitive fury. «This definition refers to the ability to give something more in terms of temperament, arriving before the opponent on the ball, winning the “second balls”, winning the tackles, making an extra run to go to the aid of a teammate. On the other hand, woe betide those who get carried away and commit fouls that would only lead to expulsion, complicating things». Once again, the “Via del Mare” will be a seething cauldron of fans: «The passion of the Salento people has never been lacking during the season. It is up to those who go on the pitch to be able to transform it into positive energy. Unfortunately, in 2025, Lecce has not yet won at home. The time has come to succeed».