Parma stunned AC Milan with a late goal from Mariano Troilo, securing a famous 1-0 victory at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.
Parma delivered a significant blow to AC Milan's Serie A title hopes today, securing a shocking 1-0 victory at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Defender Mariano Troilo emerged as the unlikely hero, finding the net in the 80th minute.
AC Milan entered the match in strong form, sitting second in the league table with 54 points, eager to close the gap on the leaders. Parma, in contrast, occupied 12th place with 29 points, aiming to improve their inconsistent run and move clear of the mid-table congestion.
From the kickoff, Milan pressed high, immediately dominating possession with 67% control throughout the match. Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić orchestrated many of Milan's early attacks, dictating the tempo from the center.
Christian Pulišić showed intent, unleashing four shots in the first half alone, three of which tested Parma's goalkeeper. However, Parma’s disciplined defense, led by goalkeeper Edoardo Corvi, repelled the hosts' numerous attempts, holding strong under pressure.
The first half saw a yellow card for Milan's Alexis Saelemaekers in the 32nd minute for a mistimed challenge. Despite Milan's persistent efforts and 17 shots inside the box, the score remained goalless at the break.
Despite AC Milan's overwhelming control and 1.33 expected goals (xG), they could not break the deadlock. Parma's resolute defensive display and tactical discipline kept the score level, setting the stage for a tense second half.
The second half began with more cautions; Mariano Troilo received a yellow card in the 48th minute, followed by Rafael Leao for unsportsmanlike conduct in the 52nd minute. Milan made early changes, bringing on P. Estupinan and N. Fullkrug for Christian Pulišić and A. Jashari in the 62nd minute to inject fresh attacking impetus.
Parma continued to defend bravely, with Corvi proving to be an impenetrable barrier, making several vital saves. Milan pushed harder, with multiple efforts off target and blocked, growing increasingly frustrated as the clock ticked down.
Then, in the 80th minute, a moment of magic broke the deadlock. Parma defender Mariano Troilo ghosted into the box and slotted home, assisted by Emanuele Valeri, to give the visitors a stunning lead.
The goal galvanized Parma, who then clung on fiercely to their advantage. Milan threw everything forward in the final minutes, including two late substitutions, but could not find an equalizer against a determined Parma side.
The statistics highlighted Milan's dominance in open play, registering 25 total shots with 6 on target, compared to Parma's 9 shots with 3 on target. Corvi's five crucial saves were instrumental in Parma's unexpected triumph.
This shocking 0-1 defeat is a significant setback for AC Milan's Scudetto aspirations, halting their positive form. For Parma, this vital away victory boosts their confidence and provides crucial points in their Serie A campaign.
