Napoli’s grip on the Serie A title remains firm despite being held to a 0-0 draw by relegation-threatened Parma at the Stadio Ennio Tardini. The result, combined with Inter Milan’s 2-2 draw against Lazio, keeps the title race alive heading into the final weekend, with Napoli maintaining their slender lead at the top.
Napoli Frustrated in Goalless Stalemate
Knowing Inter had already dropped points earlier in the day, Napoli had a chance to widen the gap and place one hand on the Scudetto. But they faced a Parma side fighting for survival, and the home team made their intentions clear from the first whistle.
Parma’s Ange-Yoan Bonny tested Alex Meret early, cutting inside before curling a shot toward the top corner. Meret responded with a sharp save to deny the early effort. Napoli hit back quickly through Matteo Politano, who cut inside and fired at goal, but Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made a composed stop.
Goalkeepers Take Center Stage
The first half turned into a showcase of goalkeeping excellence. Meret was called into action again to push Simon Sohm’s powerful drive over the bar, while Frank Anguissa came closest for Napoli with a volley that clipped the post after a neat bit of footwork.
Despite Napoli dominating possession, Parma’s backline remained disciplined and compact, frustrating the visitors with well-timed tackles and resilient blocks. With both goalkeepers in top form, the first half ended 0-0.
Second Half Intensity Ramps Up
Napoli came out firing after the break. Politano nearly scored straight from a wide delivery, but his curling ball clipped the top of the bar. Sohm again tried his luck from distance, but Meret stood tall once more to keep the game level.
The pressure mounted as news filtered through that Inter were leading against Lazio. Napoli, desperate to retain their edge in the title race, surged forward. A free-kick from Scott McTominay looked destined for the net, but Suzuki pulled off a world-class save to deny the Scotsman.
Late VAR Drama Adds to the Tension
As the clock ticked down, drama unfolded when Napoli were awarded a penalty following a tussle in the Parma box. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the referee overturned the decision due to a foul in the buildup — a moment that brought relief to both Parma and Inter Milan fans.
Napoli pushed for a winner in stoppage time, but Parma held firm, extending their unbeaten streak at home and avoiding a fourth consecutive defeat to the league leaders. Despite the draw, the result leaves Napoli’s title destiny in their own hands heading into the final round.
ONE. TO. GO. ♀️ pic.twitter.com/tUWvFXh2ym
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) May 18, 2025
Suzuki the Star of the Night
Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki was deservedly named Man of the Match. His saves throughout the contest — including stunning stops to deny McTominay and Politano — ensured Parma walked away with a crucial point in their relegation battle.
For Napoli, the performance might have lacked goals, but their 11-match unbeaten run continues, and they remain top of the table with one game to go. Inter’s draw keeps them just behind, meaning both teams will have everything to play for on the final day.
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