Dário Bragança put Torino ahead in the 36th minute after Che Adams struck the post, allowing the midfielder to finish the rebound into an unguarded net. Udinese responded before half-time when Jurgen Ekkelenkamp scored at the second attempt in the 43rd minute, his initial effort having been blocked by Torino defender Saúl Coco.
The teams went into the break level, but Torino found a way through after the interval. Nikola Vlašić helped create an opportunity as Torino increased their attacking threat, before Kulenović punished a costly mistake by Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. The goalkeeper collided with Nicolò Bertola when coming off his line, leaving Kulenović with a simple finish into the empty goal.
The victory lifted Torino to seven points, while Udinese remained on four after suffering their fourth consecutive defeat.
Torino coach Ignazio Abate was delighted to deliver a result for the home supporters and praised the collective effort of his squad.
“You could feel how much we wanted to win in front of our fans. I thank them for coming in such numbers despite it being a Monday night. It is beautiful and important to play here; this is a special place and we need to create that magic.
“We won an extremely difficult match. We won it on their ground without giving an inch. I don't remember Udinese creating many clear chances, and our substitutes made a huge impact. It shows we have a group pulling in the same direction,” Abate said.
He also defended Giovanni Simeone, who failed to score but was praised for his leadership and work for the team.
“For me, he was the best player on the pitch. He played like a real leader. When you play for the team, your turn will come and the rewards will arrive.”
Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic accepted responsibility for the defeat, pointing to the costly defensive error while insisting his side needed to remain united through a difficult spell.
“I am always optimistic; that is my approach to life. We lost because of a major mistake, as happened against Cagliari. I also have responsibility as head coach. It was a lack of communication and awareness, and with mistakes like that you lose matches.
“We didn't score or create many chances. The defensive error was costly, although Torino's first goal also came from a set-piece situation. Congratulations to Torino. I will try to keep the team united and morale high. We have to get through this moment by encouraging one another.”
Torino’s win rewarded Abate’s changes and persistence, while Udinese must find a way to halt their slide.