Decisive figure preserves Stoke City's point against Preston | OneFootball

Viktor Johansson set the tone in the sixth minute with a sharp low save, as Stoke City drew 0-0 with Preston North End.

Johansson blocked a close-range effort (6.), settling quickly into command of his area. He then palmed away a skidding drive from Thierry Small (43.).

After the restart, he got down smartly to Jordan Storey's header (55.). Late on, he smothered Benjamin Whiteman's low strike (89.).

The Swede finished with four saves, one high claim and 27 accurate passes, steadying Stoke as Preston swung in 15 crosses. His calm handling and distribution reduced panic and allowed Stoke to reset under pressure.

With Preston targeting early balls into the box, Johansson's footwork and hands kept Stoke stable in key phases, ensuring their structure held when the visitors surged.

Stoke City host Sheffield United next. Preston visit Wrexham next.