Milan struggled against Parma in a disappointing match that highlighted the team’s ongoing issues. Despite the presence of coach Paulo Fonseca, the squad exhibited the same flaws seen in previous seasons. They started the game slowly, lacking aggression and failing to display a coherent game plan. The defensive weakness was apparent, with young goalkeeper Pavlovic making several crucial saves, but the team’s fragility remained evident.
The game took a shocking turn less than two minutes in when Parma’s Valeri accelerated down the left flank, easily outpacing Calabria, before delivering a cross that Man converted into an early goal. Instead of responding in kind, Milan appeared lethargic, only showing signs of life around the half-hour mark with attempts from Okafor and Pavlovic, both heading the ball in an effort to create danger.
Unfortunately for the Rossoneri, it was Parma who remained close to scoring again, with Sohm and Mihaila both threatening to increase the lead before halftime. Even with a heavy defeat looming, Fonseca’s frustration was palpable as his team struggled to follow his tactics, showing little passion on the field.
The second half began with Milan looking eager to recover, with Reijnders striking the crossbar early on. However, the team’s chances continued to slip away due to a lack of composure in front of goal, with Pulisic and Okafor both failing to capitalize on opportunities. Parma seemed content to absorb the pressure and hit on the counter-attack.
Milan eventually found a moment of brilliance as Leao, previously quiet throughout the match, created a goal for Pulisic to level the score. However, Parma responded by bringing on fresh legs, and, as the Rossoneri pushed forward in search of a second goal, they were caught out. Almqvist made a strong run down the right, exploiting the gaps left in Milan’s defense, and set up Cancellieri, who made it 2-1 for the hosts.
Fonseca attempted to make changes with substitutions, introducing Jovic and Chukwueze, but the squad could not find an equalizer. This match served as a stark reminder of Milan’s season’s struggles, showcasing defensive vulnerabilities, a subdued Leao, and a lack of fight that needs urgent addressing ahead of upcoming fixtures against Lazio, Venezia, and critical Champions League and derby matches in the month ahead.