Napoli Faces Tension Ahead of Crucial Match Against Parma

PARMA, Italy – Napoli heads into a crucial match against Parma at 19:45 UK time on May 18, 2025, as tensions rise following a recent draw with Genoa. With only two rounds left in the season, Napoli’s lead in the Serie A is reduced to just a single point.

After the 2-2 draw against Genoa, Napoli fans are on edge. They need a win to secure their position at the top of the table and to avoid potential disappointment. If Inter Milan finishes level on points, Napoli risks losing their top position.

In the lineup, Scott McTominay returns from a minor training issue to join Romelu Lukaku, Giacomo Raspadori, and Billy Gilmour as key players. Coach Antonio Conte has had to make adjustments due to injuries, notably with Stanislav Lobotka aggravating an ankle injury, pushing Gilmour into the busy midfield role.

Alongside Lobotka, Alessandro Buongiorno and Juan Jesus are unavailable. David Neres will only make an appearance from the bench. Matias Olivera steps in as a central defender to cover for the injured players.

Parma, in 16th place, is still facing relegation concerns. Following a victory against Juventus in Week 33, they have struggled, gaining just one point in the next three matches, which included consecutive losses to Como and Empoli.

Parma’s injury list is extensive. Lautaro Valenti is serving a suspension after last weekend’s red card, while several players, including Alessandro Vogliacco and Matteo Cancellieri, are sidelined with injuries. Hernani continues to be pivotal in midfield, while Mateo Pellegrino and Ange-Yoan Bonny are tasked with leading the attack.

The match promises to be a tense encounter as both teams have much at stake.