In an exhilarating Serie A showdown, Parma hosted Genoa at the iconic Ennio Tardini stadium, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich football history. This match was not just a test of skill but also a strategic battle between managers Fabio Pecchia and Alberto Gilardino, both of whom have carved notable careers with their distinct coaching philosophies. The game unfolded in a way that kept fans on the edge of their seats, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance, tactical ingenuity, and sheer determination.
The first half of the match was a display of tight, tactical football, with both teams seeking to impose their style of play on the game. Parma, playing at home, started with a slightly higher ball possession of 46% compared to Genoa's 54%, suggesting a cautious approach from both sides. The expected goals metric indicated a close affair, with Parma edging slightly with 0.41 against Genoa's 0.23, reflecting the home team's slightly more aggressive posture in front of goal.
The statistics from the first half underscore the balanced nature of the contest. Parma managed 5 total shots, but none found the target, highlighting Genoa's effective defensive positioning and perhaps a lack of clinical finishing from Parma. Conversely, Genoa, despite less possession, created 6 shots, 3 of which were on target, showcasing their efficiency in attack. The corner kicks tally stood at 1 for Parma and 5 for Genoa, further emphasizing Genoa's attacking intent.
In the domain of passing and tackles, both teams were almost neck and neck. Parma completed 168 passes with a success rate that showed their attempt to build from the back, while Genoa edged the tackles metric, indicating their slightly more aggressive defensive strategy. The half also saw its share of discipline issues, with a total of 3 yellow cards dispensed, two to Parma and one to Genoa, reflecting the competitive nature of the match.
First Half Stats Chart
The second half brought about a significant shift in momentum, with Genoa breaking the deadlock and securing a 1-0 victory, thanks to a well-executed strike by Andrea Pinamonti in the 80th minute. This goal was a culmination of a strategic play, highlighting Genoa's patience and tactical acumen. The second half saw Parma increase their ball possession to 59%, indicating a more aggressive approach as they searched for an equalizer. However, Genoa's expected goals jumped to 0.77, showing their lethal counter-attacking play, which eventually paid off.
Statistically, the second half was a mirror of the evolving game dynamics. Despite Parma's increased possession, Genoa managed 7 total shots compared to Parma's 4, with 4 on target, underscoring their clinical efficiency in front of goal. The corner kicks were fewer, reflecting a tighter game with fewer chances being created.
The passing statistics reveal Parma's attempt to control the game, with 217 passes completed, but Genoa's strategic defensive positioning and effective use of the ball when in possession were evident. The tackles, free kicks, and yellow cards data from the second half further illustrate the intensifying battle as Parma pushed for a goal and Genoa looked to protect their lead.
Second Half Stats Chart
The match's pivotal moment undoubtedly came in the 80th minute when Andrea Pinamonti found the back of the net, delivering a crucial win for Genoa. This goal was not just a showcase of individual brilliance but also a testament to Genoa's strategic buildup and execution. The aftermath was a mix of euphoria for the away side and a palpable sense of what could have been for Parma.
The disciplinary aspects of the game were also noteworthy, with Genoa accumulating more yellow cards, indicative of their combative approach to fending off Parma's attacks. The substitutions made throughout the match reflected the tactical adjustments by both managers, aiming to tilt the balance in their favor. Yet, it was Genoa's day, as their strategy and execution on the field led them to secure valuable away points.
Final Stats Chart
The heatmaps and statistical charts provide a deeper insight into the match's tactical narrative. Parma's heatmap Parma Heatmap reveals their concentrated efforts on the flanks, attempting to penetrate Genoa's defense with wide plays and crosses. In contrast, Genoa's heatmap
Genoa Heatmap illustrates their strategic positioning, focusing on central and wide areas to exploit spaces left by Parma's attacking ventures.
The goal by Andrea Pinamonti was a masterclass in precision and timing, while the defensive and midfield battles were epitomized by the number of tackles, interceptions, and duels won by both teams. The substitutions, notably for Parma, aimed at injecting fresh legs and ideas into their attack but ultimately fell short against a disciplined Genoa defense.
In conclusion, this match was a testament to the tactical depth of Serie A, showcasing a battle of wits between two determined sides. Genoa's victory at the Ennio Tardini stadium will be remembered for its strategic significance and the sheer will to secure three points away from home. As both teams look forward, the lessons from this encounter will undoubtedly influence their strategies and preparations for the challenges ahead.
In the 11th round of the season, Parma opted for a 4-3-3 formation, a strategic choice aiming to balance between defense and attack, providing width in their game and options for building up play from the back. This formation is highlighted by the presence of key players in both defensive and offensive roles, as shown in the lineup below:
Substitutes included a mix of midfielders and forwards, indicating a strategy to reinforce the attack or midfield as needed. Notably, Mateusz Kowalski (F), Alessandro Circati (D), and Hernani (M) were missing, potentially affecting the team's depth and options.
Parma Formation - 4-3-3
Genoa employed a 3-5-2 formation, which emphasizes strength in the midfield and flexibility in attack, allowing for both defensive solidity and the capacity to press high when in possession. The lineup was as follows:
Substitutes were primarily defensive and midfield options, suggesting a plan to maintain or adjust the midfield battle and defensive integrity as the game progressed. Missing players like Ruslan Malinovskyi (M) and Vitinha (F) could have limited Genoa's tactical flexibility and offensive creativity.
Genoa Formation - 3-5-2
The home team's goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki, displayed an impressive performance with a 7.7 rating, making 6 saves and showcasing his ability to command the box with 5 saved shots from inside the box. This indicates his crucial role in keeping the scoreline minimal. On the defense, Enrico Del Prato stood out with a 7.4 rating, contributing significantly with clearances and blocks, highlighting his defensive prowess.
In the midfield, Simon Sohm and Valentin Mihăilă were notable for their contributions, with Sohm attempting two shots off target and Mihăilă being pivotal in both defense and attack, as evidenced by his 7.3 rating and high duel win rate. This underlines the midfield's role in both orchestrating attacks and breaking down opposition plays.
For Genoa, Andrea Pinamonti was the standout performer with a 7.7 rating, scoring the decisive goal and proving to be a constant threat with his shot hitting the woodwork, showcasing his finishing skills and ability to find space in tight areas. Morten Frendrup also had a significant impact with a 7.5 rating, demonstrating his all-around abilities in midfield, from defensive contributions to creating scoring opportunities.
The chosen formations and player performances reflect both teams' strategic approaches and individual contributions, highlighting the tactical battle that unfolds in such closely contested matches.
Final Stats Chart
In the aftermath of the latest Serie A clash between Parma and Genoa, the standings provide a clear picture of the competitive landscape in Italy's top football league. The match, which ended in a 1-0 victory for Genoa, had significant implications for both teams, struggling near the bottom of the table. After 11 rounds, the landscape of Serie A is shaping up, with the top teams pulling away while others find themselves in a battle to climb the standings or fight off relegation.
Top of the Table Overview
Napoli leads the pack with 25 points after 11 matches, showcasing a solid performance with 8 wins, 2 losses, and a draw. Their goal difference stands at +10, with 18 goals scored and 8 conceded, indicating both a potent attack and a sturdy defense. Following closely is Inter, with 24 points from 7 wins, 1 loss, and 3 draws, boasting the best goal difference in the league at +12, thanks to their aggressive offense that has netted 25 goals so far.
Atalanta occupies the third spot with 22 points, tied with Fiorentina but leading due to a superior goal difference of +15, the highest in the league, underlining their attacking prowess with 29 goals scored. Fiorentina, also with 22 points, has demonstrated a balanced approach with 6 wins, 1 loss, and 4 draws, maintaining a strong defensive record with only 9 goals conceded.
Struggles at the Bottom
The battle at the bottom is equally intense, with Parma and Genoa directly involved in the relegation skirmish. Before the match, both teams were tied with 9 points, but Genoa's victory pushed them slightly ahead in the standings. Parma, despite the loss, sits at the 14th position with 9 points from 11 matches, including 1 win, 6 draws, and 4 losses, struggling with a goal difference of -3.
Genoa's win, their second of the season, brings their total to 9 points, with a record of 2 wins, 3 draws, and 6 losses. Their goal difference stands at -13, reflecting the challenges they've faced in both scoring and conceding goals. This victory could be crucial in their fight for survival in Serie A.
Relegation Zone Dynamics
The relegation zone sees intense competition, with Monza, Venezia, and Lecce occupying the last three spots. Monza is at 18th with 8 points, just one point behind Parma and Genoa, highlighting how tight the competition is at the bottom. Venezia and Lecce, both also with 8 points, are at the 19th and 20th positions, respectively. The goal difference marginally separates these teams, with Lecce having the worst record at -16.
Conclusion and Prospects
As Serie A progresses, the top teams continue to vie for Champions League spots, with Napoli, Inter, Atalanta, and Fiorentina setting the pace. Meanwhile, the battle to avoid relegation is heating up, with teams like Parma and Genoa fighting in every match to secure their place in Italy's top flight. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for teams at both ends of the table, as they look to either consolidate their positions at the top or climb out of the relegation zone. For Parma and Genoa, every point gained is a step toward safety, and their direct confrontations could determine their fate in Serie A.
