Torino 0–1 Cittadella
International Club Friendly – 25 July 2026

Cittadella Stun Torino with Late Winner

Serie B side Cittadella produced a surprise result by defeating Serie A’s Torino 1–0 in a pre‑season friendly at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino. A late second‑half goal decided a contest that was otherwise tight and competitive.

A Tight First Half

Torino dominated possession in the opening period but struggled to break down a disciplined Cittadella defence. The best chance fell to Torino striker Antonio Sanabria, whose header was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Elhan Kastrati in the 32nd minute. Cittadella offered little going forward but remained compact, ensuring the score remained 0–0 at the break.

Decisive Moment

The match appeared destined for a goalless draw until the 82nd minute, when Cittadella’s substitute Lorenzo Strizzolo latched onto a defensive mistake by Torino centre‑back David Zima and slotted calmly past Vanja Milinković‑Savić. Torino pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way through, with Kastrati making two further saves in stoppage time.

What the Result Means

For Torino, this friendly exposes areas that still need sharpening before the Serie A season starts. Fitness levels and defensive concentration were below par. Cittadella, meanwhile, will take great confidence from a win against top‑flight opposition and will aim to carry that momentum into their Serie B campaign.

Notable Absences

Torino rested several key players, including midfielders Ivan Ilić and Samuele Ricci, which contributed to their lack of fluidity. Manager Paolo Vanoli will likely field a stronger lineup in their next friendly.