A costly defensive error leaves Udinese with four straight defeats

One communication failure turned a controlled performance into Udinese’s fourth consecutive Serie A defeat. Torino won 2-1, with coach Kosta Runjaic saying the decisive defensive mistake could not be excused.

Torino took the lead from a set piece. Udinese then conceded the winner after what Runjaic called an “incredible” error, caused by a lack of communication and awareness. He said a similar mistake had cost his side against Cagliari and accepted responsibility as the team’s coach.

“I had the feeling we controlled the game, but football is about results,” Runjaic said. He felt Udinese had played solidly and did not deserve to lose, but acknowledged that they created few clear chances and failed to score. His verdict points to the problem: control counted for little once Udinese gave away the decisive goal without making enough chances at the other end.

The loss extends a difficult start: Udinese have now lost four in a row after six matches. Captain Jesper Karlström also described it as a difficult period, while insisting the team had not played badly. He said the players had to work hard and stay united, adding that injuries could not serve as an excuse because the available squad was good.

Runjaic’s task now is to lift the group and keep it together. He highlighted the return of Solet, who showed his quality, and praised Giorgi Chakvetadze for a strong performance after missing pre-season. He also said Ekkelenkamp had continued his good form, describing him as one of Serie A’s best for assists and goals.

Udinese are still waiting for Nicolò Zaniolo, Keinan Davis and Piotrowski to return. Runjaic said James Abankwah appeared to have picked up a problem; Vojvoda was very tired, and Zanoli was not an option to replace him. Palma has returned, offering another positive amid the setback.

Next comes a trip to Lecce on Sunday, October 18, at 12:30 CEST. Lecce sit 13th with six points from six matches. Another defeat would deepen the pressure on Udinese before the international break, making a sharper defensive display and more threat in front of goal urgent priorities.