Kean pounces early to give Fiorentina vital win in Serie A relegation crunch match - AP News
AP News
February 23, 2026
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Fiorentina secured a crucial victory in their Serie A relegation battle as forward Kean scored early to hand his team the upper hand against Lecce. The match, labeled as a "relegation crunch" encounter, saw Fiorentina edge out their opponents thanks to Kean's decisive goal early in the first half. This win proved vital for Fiorentina, who were fighting to avoid dropping into the Serie B next season.
Fiorentina entered the match needing points to climb away from the relegation zone, with Lecce also battling to escape the same fate. Kean's opener came after a well-executed counter-attack, showcasing Fiorentina's ability to transition quickly and exploit defensive gaps. Despite controlling much of the game, both teams created chances, but only Fiorentina converted.
The result lifted Fiorentina above Lecce in the standings, moving them closer to safety while adding pressure on their rivals. The match highlighted the high stakes of the relegation battle, with both teams separated by just a few points in the table. Kean's performance further cemented his importance to Fiorentina as they push for survival. This win not only boosted their morale but also showcased their resilience under pressure.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/23/2026