Parma delivered a shock blow to Juventus’ Champions League ambitions with a gritty 1-0 win at the Stadio Ennio Tardini, thanks to a decisive header from Mateo Pellegrino just before halftime. The defeat sees Juventus slip out of Serie A’s top four as the season enters its critical final stretch, while Parma take a significant step away from the relegation zone.
The match started with early promise for Juventus, as captain Manuel Locatelli fired wide in the opening minute, but that proved to be a false dawn. Both teams struggled to create clear chances in a first half that lacked intensity and quality. Parma were forced into an early tactical reshuffle after Alessandro Vogliacco’s injury, but adapted well and began to frustrate the visitors.
The breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time. Emanuele Valeri, one of Serie A’s most productive defenders with five assists this season, delivered a looping cross that Pellegrino met with a powerful header, giving Parma a crucial lead.
Juventus pushed forward in the second half, dominating possession but lacking penetration and a clinical edge in the final third. Parma’s disciplined defensive shape held firm, and despite late pressure—including a narrow miss from Francisco Conceição—the hosts held on for a massive three points.
Parma managed to convert their limited opportunities efficiently, registering two shots on target from a total of four attempts, while Juventus struggled to test the goalkeeper, failing to register any shots on target despite five total shots.
Juventus dominated possession with 66%, but Parma’s defensive resilience limited their attacking threat. The visitors earned three corners compared to Parma’s four, but were unable to capitalize.
Juventus goalkeeper made one crucial save to keep his team in the game, while Parma’s keeper remained untested throughout the match.
Parma have now gone unbeaten in six consecutive Serie A matches for the first time since 2014.
Pellegrino, at 23 years and 183 days, is the youngest Parma player to score or assist in three straight home league games since 2011.
Juventus suffered their first defeat under new coach Igor Tudor, ending a three-match unbeaten run.
Juventus drop to fifth place with 59 points, one behind Bologna in the race for the final Champions League spot, with five games remaining.
Parma climb to 31 points, now six clear of the relegation zone, and continue their resurgence under manager Cristian Chivu.
Juventus manager Igor Tudor did not mince words after his first loss at the helm:
“We lacked a bit of everything. We pushed a lot in the second half, but we were not dangerous enough. We must grow, be wicked and have the desire to win and fight.”
Tudor acknowledged his side’s lack of determination and cutting edge, emphasizing the need for a stronger mentality as the season reaches its climax.
Parma’s disciplined display drew praise, with their recent form—including draws against Inter and Fiorentina—highlighting their growing resilience. The win marks their first Serie A victory over Juventus in a decade and could prove pivotal in their fight for survival.
Juventus supporters voiced frustration over the team’s inability to break down Parma’s defense and the missed opportunity to reclaim a Champions League position. The lack of attacking threat and an injury to Dusan Vlahovic added to the Bianconeri’s woes.
Parma’s victory over Juventus is a defining moment in both clubs’ seasons: a lifeline for the Gialloblu and a major setback for the Bianconeri’s Champions League hopes. With five matches left, the pressure mounts on Juventus to rediscover their form, while Parma can look ahead with renewed optimism.