Parma secured a 2-1 victory over city rivals Genoa at the Ennio Tardini on January 18, 2026, thanks to two goals from Mateo Pellegrino and a decisive strike from Adrian Bernabé. The win lifts Parma to seventh place in Serie A, while Genoa slips to 13th, intensifying the mid‑table battle and keeping European hopes alive for Parma.
Match Highlights
First Half Action
Both teams started with strong line‑ups: Parma deployed a 4‑3‑3 featuring Argentine forward Mateo Pellegrino and winger Adrian Bernabé, while Genoa responded with a compact 3‑5‑2. Early pressure from Parma forced Genoa onto the defensive, but the deadlock was broken in the 27th minute when Pellegrino capitalised on a low pass from midfield and finished past the keeper.
Genoa equalised quickly in the 34th minute as forward Marco Rossi headed home from a corner, restoring balance and setting up a tense second half.
Second Half Decisive Goal
After a period of midfield battles, Parma regained possession on the right flank in the 78th minute. Bernabé cut inside and delivered a precise low cross to Pellegrino, who volleyed into the top corner for a 2-1 lead. A late double‑save by Parma goalkeeper Luca Bianchi secured the win despite Genoa’s final‑minute pressure.
Rivalry Background
The Parma‑Genoa derby is a historic northern‑Italian clash that often influences mid‑table positioning. Before this match, Genoa held a slight edge in recent head‑to‑head encounters. Parma entered on a three‑game unbeaten run, while Genoa had struggled with two defeats in their previous four fixtures.
Season Implications
Parma’s victory pushes the club to seventh place with 15 points after six games, bringing them closer to European qualification. The performance highlights Ventura’s tactical gamble, with Pellegrino emerging as a focal point and Bernabé’s creativity proving decisive.
For Genoa, the loss drops them to 13th with 12 points, exposing defensive vulnerabilities in their back three. Coach Castori may need to adjust the defensive shape to halt further setbacks, though Rossi’s goal shows promise for the attacking unit.
Statistical Snapshot
- Possession: Parma 53% – 47% Genoa
- Shots (on target): Parma 12 (5) – 10 (4) Genoa
- Corners: Parma 6 – 4 Genoa
- Pass accuracy: Parma 84% – 81% Genoa
Looking Forward
Parma’s next challenge is a home match against Lazio, a test of whether the momentum from the derby can translate into a sustained climb up the standings. Genoa travels to face AC Milan, where securing a point will be crucial to stop their slide.
