On March 15, 2025, at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Torino took on Empoli in a suspenseful Serie A clash, resulting in Torino claiming a narrow 1-0 victory. The match showcased both teams battling fiercely but highlighted Torino's tactical execution, epitomized by their standout player Nikola Vlasic.
The match unfolded with Empoli aiming to improve their league standing, coming off three draws from their previous series of games. Their performance this season had been lackluster, especially with only three draws across their last 13 Serie A matches, leaving the team desperate for points to climb from the relegation zone.
Despite missing some key players, including Antonio Sanabria and Duvan Zapata, Torino entered the match with two recent victories against strong teams, Milan and Monza, and showed promise to build on this momentum. This win was particularly important for them not only to consolidate their form but also to fend off any relegation worries themselves.
The game kicked off with both teams creating early chances. Emmanuel Gyasi of Empoli tested Torino's keeper, Vanja Milinković-Savić, early on with two shots, but the goalkeeper was up to the task, comfortably saving both attempts. An incidence of stand-out play from Gvidas Gineitis — blocking with his body — prevented any damage early on for Torino.
On the opposite end, Torino's Nikola Vlasic attempted to break the deadlock. He was continuously probing the Empoli defense, often forcing the issue from distance. His left-footed shot from outside the box at the 10-minute mark was one of many attempts he would make throughout the match.
The first half ended with the score nil-nil, with both teams missing clear opportunities. Junior Sambia of Empoli failed to capitalize on what seemed to be an easy volley from 12 meters out, sending his attempt over the crossbar. Elsewhere, Giuseppe Pezzella also couldn't convert chances, denying Empoli the opportunity to take the lead.
After the break, both teams made adjustments, but the impasse was broken by Vlasic. The Turkish midfielder, thriving under pressure, scored the match’s only goal at 69 minutes. He seized upon a loose ball following some defensive confusion by Empoli, directing his right-footed shot past the outstretched arms of the keeper, sealing his name on the scoresheet — Torino 1 Empoli 0.
This goal stirred both jubilation and anguish across the stadium; fans cheered for their home team, but Empoli players were left to rue their missed chances. Following the goal, Torino continued to apply pressure, with players like Cristiano Biraghi attempting to extend their lead, yet shot attempts were either blocked or saved by Empoli’s defense.
Empoli's frustration was palpable as they pressed for the equalizer, with attempts by Gyasi and other players routinely foiled by Torino’s resilient defense. Ismael Konaté came off the bench to provide some spark for Empoli, but his late shot was saved effectively by Milinković-Savić, demonstrating the keeper's solid form throughout the match.
During the second half, both teams made several substitutions as fatigue set in. Torino's coach opted for defensive changes, emphasizing the need to hold onto their narrow lead. Adrien Tameze replaced Nikola Vlasic, much to the delight of the fans, who applauded their player’s efforts.
Despite the intensity and considerable amount of stoppage time announced by officials — 6 minutes — neither team managed to change the outcome. The match concluded with Torino holding onto their lead, claiming all three points at the end of the day, reflecting the need for Empoli to improve their finishing skills if they were to find results moving forward this season.
The aftermath of the match brought discussions about Torino's tactical discipline and the effectiveness of their game plan going forward. The coach remarked, "A decision made swiftly is sometimes missed opportunity," reflecting on the team's narrow win but acknowledging the opportunities squandered to seal their advantages. Meanwhile, for Empoli, key concerns remained centered around converting chances and dealing with their lengthy injury list. With names like Youssef Maleh and others still sidelined, the road to recovery seems long for the struggling club.
This match served as both a wake-up call for Empoli and a ride of assurance for Torino as they looked to capitalize on this momentum moving forward.