N. Vlasic’s first-half goal proved the difference as Torino edged Cremonese 1-0 in a hard-fought Serie A encounter that saw the hosts weather sustained pressure to claim all three points.
The Croatian midfielder broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, finishing what would be the match’s only goal despite both sides creating chances throughout the 90 minutes. Cremonese’s frustration grew nine minutes later when T. Barbieri picked up a yellow card, setting the tone for an increasingly tense affair.
Despite controlling 53.7% of possession, Cremonese struggled to translate their territorial advantage into clear-cut opportunities. The visitors managed just three shots on target from their 10 attempts, generating an xG of 0.69 that highlighted their difficulty in breaking down a resilient Torino defense. The home side’s goalkeeper made three crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Cremonese manager made wholesale changes in search of an equalizer, with W. Bondo introduced at halftime before a double substitution on 63 minutes saw G. Pezzella and Barbieri replaced. Further alterations followed as J. Vandeputte and F. Bonazzoli entered the fray in the 77th minute.
Torino, whose 1.09 xG suggested they deserved their narrow advantage, matched 18 shots to Cremonese’s 10 and placed six on target. However, the hosts required five saves from the visiting keeper to maintain their lead. Manager responded with his own tactical adjustments, bringing on G. Gineitis and D. Zapata on 64 minutes, then C. Adams late on.
The match’s physical nature continued until the final whistle, with M. Payero and M. Pedersen both cautioned in stoppage time. Torino’s effective clearances—36 to Cremonese’s 33—ultimately proved decisive in securing a gritty victory.
