With four matches left to play, the Nerazzurri have 78 points while second-placed Roma have only 72.

The hosts had a good approach of the game and went close from scoring on several occasions but Roberto Mancini’s side was very solid at the back.

And from their first sight of goal, Inter took the lead when Cruz headed Mario Balotelli’s corner in the 30th minute.

Super Mario could have made it two up but his shot bounced back from the woodwork a few minutes later.

Torino kept pressing forward to level the score and Nicola Ventola saw his 9-meter header well parried by keeper Julio Cesar.

The Milanese held well until the end of the game to return home with three precious points.