This season, Serie A is witnessing an intensely packed battle for survival, involving essentially all teams in the lower half of the table. Just two points separate Torino and Cagliari ahead of their face-off, making it crucial for both sides not to surrender precious points to their rival.
Torino's steady decline in the Serie A standings has not ceased, even after the return of several key players. Currently, they are on a disappointing run of five matches without a win. In clashes against Bologna (0:2) and Parma (0:0), Torino failed to find the net, leaving their supporters wanting. In 2025, the team accumulated only 2.04 xG over 270 minutes in the league – the worst record in the competition.
In January, Cagliari appeared more vibrant than their closest opponent, though this is attributed to an easier fixture schedule. Against a solid AC Milan side (1:1), the Sardinians were forced to defend at the San Siro and capitalised on an error by Mike Maignan to score (0.37 xG and two shots on target in 90 minutes). Away from home, Cagliari have collected nine points from 10 games—only six clubs in the league have fewer.
Their encounter in October saw a 2:3 thriller as both teams attacked from the start, during a time when they were lacking depth and unburdened by league standings. However, this time, with much at stake, both competitors are expected to adopt a more cautious approach defensively, reducing the likelihood of numerous chances.
