The Rossoneri extended their lead to four points at the summit with a home victory over Marco Giampaolo’s men.
The hosts got a deserved lead inside the opening 25 minutes through Rafael Leao before Franck Kessie’s penalty on the 36th minute mark made it 2-0 and that was enough to settle Torino’s ninth defeat of the 2020/2021 season.
“I must admit, I was not at all surprised by this performance,” Pioli told DAZN after the game.
“I know these lads and expected them to give this kind of response. The first half was excellent, particularly in terms of quality, and we inevitably came under pressure during the second half against a Torino side in good form”
The Italian coach also showered praise on Kessie and Leao who were both on the scoresheet.
“Franck is a complete player, he gives us physicality, energy, quality, protects the defence and knits the moves going forward too,” Pioli continued
“He has this eternally positive mentality in the match situation, he’s the first to help out a teammate or reassure them. This is a young side that needs guidance and encouragement, so Kessie is invaluable in that sense.”
“I really liked Rafael Leao, as he is improving in his focus, his concentration, the way he was always in the game tonight. He’s still very young and is learning. He has certain characteristics, so he isn’t your traditional centre-forward.
“I think Leao, aside from his potential, was signed at the time to play as a deputy striker. However, he’s now becoming a more complete player who can vary in different positions, so we are ready to reshuffle when needed.”
