Torino clinched a 2-1 home victory over Lecce on February 1, 2026, with Duvan Zapata opening the scoring and Che Adams delivering the decisive goal. The win keeps the Granata within striking distance of European‑qualification spots while Lecce remains locked in a relegation battle.
Match Summary
Torino started strongly, breaking the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Zapata finished a low cross from Sasa Kalajdzic. Lecce equalised early in the second half through substitute Walid Cheddira, but Adams restored the lead in the 68th minute with a first‑time strike from an Andrea Belotti through‑ball.
Key Moments
- 23′ – Zapata scores after a patient build‑up on the left flank.
- 55′ – Cheddira nets the equaliser after a quick one‑two with Lorenzo Insigne.
- 68′ – Adams fires home the winner from a Belotti pass.
- Closing stages – Lecce’s Davide Zappacosta hits the post; Torino’s Andrea Petagna rattles the crossbar with a header.
Line‑ups and Tactical Shifts
Torino deployed a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation, with Zapata and Adams leading the attack. The back four featured Alessandro Florence at right‑back and a central partnership of Davide Bennett and Matteo Gabbia. Andrea Belotti operated behind the striker, linking play with Sasa Kalajdzic.
Lecce, under Vincenzo Montella, lined up in a 3‑5‑2 system. Cheddira entered at halftime for the injured Francesco Pellegrini and immediately impacted the game. Wing‑backs Lorenzo Pellegrini and Marco Rossi provided width, while the midfield trio of Davide Zappacosta, Luca Mancini and Daniele Bennett aimed to dominate the centre.
Current Standings and Implications
Torino moves to 30 points, narrowing the gap to fifth‑placed Atalanta to two points with five games left. The victory reinforces the striking partnership of Zapata and Adams, who have combined for eight goals this season. Manager Ivan Jurić is expected to maintain the current system that emphasizes quick transitions and flank exploitation.
Lecce remains in 17th place with 22 points, three points clear of the relegation zone. Cheddira’s introduction offers a potential spark for a late‑season surge, but Montella must tighten the defence, which conceded three goals.
Statistical Snapshot
- Possession: Torino 54% – Lecce 46%
- Shots (on target): Torino 12 (6) – Lecce 9 (4)
- Corners: Torino 5 – Lecce 3
- Fouls: Torino 14 – Lecce 16
Looking Ahead
Torino’s next challenge is a home clash against Napoli, a test that could cement their European ambitions. Lecce travels to face newly promoted Salernitana, a fixture that offers a realistic chance to climb out of the relegation zone.
Both clubs will reflect on the lessons from Sunday’s encounter: Torino must maintain composure in front of goal, while Lecce needs to solidify its defence and capitalize on the attacking spark provided by Cheddira.
