Zambian speedy winger Lameck Banda's Italian Serie A side US Lecce squandered a 1-0 lead to concede twice in the second half and lose 2-1 against Genoa on Sunday, marking their third consecutive defeat in the league despite Banda's return to the team. Lecce, still reeling from recent losses to Juventus (3-0) and Lazio (1-0), were hoping for a bounce back with the return of the Zambian international from the Africa Cup of Nations. However, Banda could only make the bench for the Sunday encounter. The visitors had a golden opportunity to take the lead early on when they were awarded a penalty in the 17th minute, but Nikola Krstović's effort from the spot was saved by Genoa goalkeeper Josep Martínez. Lecce finally managed to break the deadlock in the 31st minute, with Krstović making amends for his earlier miss to put the visitors ahead at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium. The goal brought hope for a potential turnaround, and Lecce seemed poised to extend their lead with several clear-cut chances in the second half. But the tide turned against Banda's side in the 70th minute when Mateo Retegui equalized for Genoa with a close-range header after a well-taken freekick struck the woodwork. Just minutes later, Caleb Ekuban put the home team ahead with a spectacular overhead kick, capitalizing on Retegui's headed assist following sustained pressure from Genoa. Banda's introduction in the 64th minute, replacing Nicola Sansone, failed to spark a comeback for Lecce. Despite Banda's spirited efforts, Genoa held on to secure their first back-to-back victories in the league in two years. Lecce will have to put this disappointing defeat behind them quickly as they look to get back on track against Fiorentina in their next league encounter on Friday. Banda will be hoping to make a more significant impact from the start in that crucial match.