Juventus’ aspirations for a UEFA Champions League spot took a significant hit following a narrow 1-0 loss to Parma in Serie A.
The defeat marked just Parma’s second victory in their last seven head-to-head encounters on home soil against the Bianconeri (L5).
The clash, crucial for both the top and bottom of the table, began with promise as Juve skipper Manuel Locatelli unleashed a shot from the edge of the box in the opening minute, narrowly missing the target.
However, that early effort proved misleading, as neither side managed to bring much intensity or quality to the proceedings thereafter.
Parma were forced into a quick tactical reshuffle after Alessandro Vogliacco suffered an injury, but the hosts adjusted seamlessly, far outpacing Juventus in adaptation and drive.
Despite wasting several promising chances, Cristian Chivu’s team finally broke through in first-half stoppage time. Emmanuele Valeri delivered a perfect cross which Mateo Pellegrino met with a powerful header to put Parma ahead.
Juventus emerged from the break with the same lack of spark, prompting manager Igor Tudor to make personnel changes. Yet it was Parma who continued to look more dangerous on the counter.
One notable move saw Simon Sohm link up with Pellegrino, but Sohm’s finish lacked bite and was easily collected by goalkeeper Michele De Gregorio.
Facing the threat of a first loss this season to a team from the bottom half of the table, Juventus applied sustained pressure but found no way through Parma’s solid backline.
The tension in the stands was palpable, especially given that Parma had drawn their previous five matches.
Francisco Conceição came close to doubling the lead with a late effort that flew just wide, but Parma held on resolutely. The vital three points saw them pull six clear of the relegation zone.
For Juventus, it was a missed opportunity of major proportions, a win would have propelled them into the top four. Instead, they suffered their first defeat under Tudor’s reign, leaving their Champions League ambitions hanging in the balance.
