Napoli’s Serie A title hopes took a hit as the 1-1 draw with Parma put them six points behind leaders Inter Milan.
Napoli suffered a damaging setback in their bid to retain the Serie A title after being held to a 1-1 draw by Parma at the Stadio Ennio Tardini. The result leaves Napoli six points off the top, increasing pressure in the title race.
Following their recent win over AC Milan, Napoli arrived with momentum and an opportunity to close the gap on leaders Inter Milan. However, Parma had other ideas and made a blistering start.
The hosts stunned Napoli with a goal inside the opening minute. Nesta Elphege rose highest to flick on a long ball, allowing Gabriel Strefezza to burst into the box and curl a precise finish into the far corner.
Despite dominating possession for much of the first half, Napoli struggled to create clear opportunities. Parma’s disciplined defensive setup frustrated the visitors, limiting them to speculative efforts. Napoli eventually found their equaliser after the break through Scott McTominay. A well-worked move involving Stanislav Lobotka and Rasmus Højlund allowed McTominay to fire home a low strike into the corner.
The midfielder’s subdued celebration reflected the urgency of Napoli’s situation, as they pushed forward in search of a winner to keep their title hopes alive.
⏹️ Full time: #ParmaNapoli 1-1
💙 #ForzaNapoliSempre pic.twitter.com/D1fdkKFNWL
— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) April 12, 2026
Chances continued to come late on, with McTominay attempting an overhead kick and substitute Alisson Santos going close. However, Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki produced key saves to deny the visitors.
The draw leaves Napoli relying on other results to stay in contention, while Parma move further clear of danger. With the title race tightening, Antonio Conte’s side will need a strong finish to keep their Scudetto hopes alive.
