Torino vs AC Milan Match Recap - Dec 8, 2025

Pulisic's Brilliance Propels AC Milan Past Torino in Thrilling Encounter

AC Milan's Christian Pulisic emerged as the star of the match, scoring twice to secure a 3-2 victory over Torino at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino. This win solidifies Milan's position in the top tier of Serie A, while Torino continues to struggle in the lower half of the table.

Milan's recent form has been a rollercoaster, but this match showcased their resilience. Despite a disappointing exit from the Coppa Italia against Lazio just days prior, they bounced back with a strong performance. The team now sits in third place with 28 points, reflecting their ability to grind out results even when not at their best. Pulisic's two goals today highlight his growing importance in the squad, especially after his decisive strike against Inter last week.

Torino's struggles persist, with only three wins in their last 13 matches. They currently occupy 13th place with just 14 points, a stark contrast to Milan's title aspirations. The team has failed to find consistency, and today's match was no exception. Despite taking an early lead through Duván Zapata, they could not maintain their advantage, ultimately succumbing to Milan's attacking prowess.

Milan dominated possession with 66%, reflecting their control over the game. Their ability to dictate play allowed them to create more opportunities, leading to a total of seven shots compared to Torino's four. This trend aligns with Milan's recent performances, where they have often outperformed opponents in terms of ball control and shot creation, even when facing teams that have had more shots on target.

Pulisic's performance was pivotal; he not only scored twice but also contributed significantly to Milan's overall attacking strategy. His movement off the ball created space for teammates like Rafael Leão, who remains a constant threat. The synergy between these two players is becoming increasingly evident, as they exploit defensive weaknesses effectively. Pulisic's ability to draw defenders and create openings has been crucial for Milan, especially in tight matches like this one.

Torino's defensive frailties were exposed once again. Despite leading in expected goals (xG) at 0.85 compared to Milan's 0.41, they struggled to convert their chances into meaningful threats. This inconsistency has plagued them throughout the season, as evidenced by their recent matches where they have often dominated possession yet failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The lack of clinical finishing continues to haunt them, and today's match was another example of missed chances costing them dearly.

The penalty awarded to Torino, converted by Nikola Vlašić, provided a brief glimmer of hope. However, it was not enough to shift the momentum back in their favor. The team's inability to maintain composure under pressure has been a recurring theme this season, and it was evident as they allowed Milan to regain control after equalizing.

Milan's tactical approach under coach Marco Landucci has been effective in recent weeks, focusing on solid defensive organization while maximizing counter-attacking opportunities. Their ability to absorb pressure and strike decisively has been key to their success. The combination of experienced players like Luka Modrić and emerging talents such as Pulisic creates a balanced squad capable of adapting to various match situations.

Looking ahead, Torino faces a crucial match against Cremonese next week, where they must find a way to turn their fortunes around. With only three wins this season, the pressure is mounting on coach Marco Baroni to instill confidence and effectiveness in his squad. The upcoming fixture will be vital for their survival hopes as they seek to climb out of the relegation zone.

Milan will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next challenge against Sassuolo. With Pulisic in fine form and the team showing signs of cohesion, they remain firmly in the title race. The victory today not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces their status as serious contenders for the Serie A crown.

Pulisic's brace today marks a turning point for him personally, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it matters most. His contributions will be essential as Milan navigates the busy schedule ahead, aiming for both domestic and European success.

In summary, AC Milan's victory over Torino highlights the contrasting trajectories of both teams this season. While Milan continues to assert its dominance at the top of Serie A, Torino must confront its ongoing struggles if it hopes to avoid further descent into the relegation battle. The storylines emerging from this match encapsulate the highs and lows of football-where individual brilliance can shine through even amidst collective challenges.