Parma vs SS Lazio Match Preview | Serie A 2025/26
Fixture: Parma Calcio 1913 vs SS Lazio
Competition: Italian Serie A – Matchday 14
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Kick-off Time: 6:00 PM CET (5:00 PM GMT / 12:00 PM ET)
Venue: Stadio Ennio Tardini, Parma
Referee: TBC
Match Overview
Parma welcome SS Lazio to the Stadio Ennio Tardini on Saturday evening in what promises to be a fascinating Serie A encounter between two teams with contrasting fortunes this season. The Crociati are fighting desperately to avoid relegation, currently positioned in 15th place, while the Biancocelesti sit in 10th and are looking to reignite their push toward European qualification. This fixture carries extra significance following Parma’s stunning 3-1 victory over Lazio when these sides last met in December 2024, ending Lazio’s impressive winning streak.
Current Form & League Standings
Parma Calcio 1913 (Home Team)
Parma currently occupy 15th position in the Serie A table with 11 points from 14 matches (3 wins, 5 draws, 6 losses), placing them precariously close to the relegation zone. The Crociati have struggled to adapt to top-flight football following their promotion from Serie B, winning just 21% of their matches this season.
Under manager Carlos Cuesta (following Fabio Pecchia’s dismissal and Cristian Chivu’s brief tenure in the 2024-25 season), Parma have shown fighting spirit but lack consistency. Their most recent result was a narrow 1-0 victory over Pisa, providing a much-needed confidence boost.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches):
- Won 1-0 against Pisa (home) – crucial three points
- Drew 2-2 with AC Milan (home) – impressive comeback
- Mixed results in previous fixtures
- Generally struggle for goals (10 scored in 14 matches)
- Poor overall form placing them near relegation zone
Home Record:
Parma’s home form has been underwhelming with just 1 win, 3 draws, and 3 losses at the Stadio Ennio Tardini this season. The home crowd of approximately 16,940 average attendance provides passionate support, but the Crociati have struggled to convert that energy into points. However, their memorable 3-1 victory over Lazio last December demonstrates they can rise to the occasion against quality opposition.
Key Stats:
- 10 goals scored, 16 conceded in 14 Serie A matches
- Average 0.71 goals scored per match (struggling attack)
- Average 1.14 goals conceded per match
- 47% of matches with Over 2.5 goals
- Currently on 23.53% win rate overall
SS Lazio (Away Team)
Lazio currently sit in 10th position in the Serie A standings, a disappointing position for a club with European ambitions. Under manager Maurizio Sarri, the Biancocelesti have experienced an inconsistent campaign characterized by defensive solidity but attacking struggles. They’ve shown resilience with an impressive unbeaten streak but have drawn far too many matches.
The capital club arrives in Parma seeking revenge for their humiliating 3-1 defeat in the reverse fixture last December, which shocked the football world and ended their impressive form.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches):
- Long unbeaten streak across multiple competitions
- Drew their last 4 home matches consecutively
- Won only 1 of last 9 home Serie A matches
- Unbeaten in 16 matches in Serie A (remarkable consistency)
- Cannot win in last 15 Serie A matches (all draws)
Away Record:
Lazio’s away form shows 7 consecutive unbeaten matches, though they’ve drawn repeatedly. This defensive solidity is commendable, but their inability to convert draws into wins has cost them dearly in the race for European qualification. They haven’t won away in their last 11 Serie A matches, drawing 7 consecutively.
Key Stats:
- 18 goals scored in 16 matches (1.13 per game average)
- Excellent defensive record with multiple clean sheets
- Unbeaten in 16 consecutive Serie A matches
- 25% of matches with Over 2.5 goals (very low)
- Both teams scored in only 2 of 16 matches
Head-to-Head Record
This fixture has historically favored Lazio, who have dominated Parma with 29 wins to 15 losses in 59 meetings. However, recent encounters tell a more competitive story, with Parma showing they can challenge the Roman club.
Recent Meetings:
- December 1, 2024: Parma 3-1 Lazio – stunning upset ended Lazio’s winning streak
- April 28, 2025: Lazio 2-1 Parma – revenge at Stadio Olimpico
- May 12, 2021: Lazio 1-0 Parma
- Previous history: Lazio won 9 of last 10 before Parma’s shock victory
Key Stats:
- Parma won the most recent meeting 3-1 at home (December 2024)
- Lazio had won 9 straight before that defeat
- Lazio won all 8 previous home matches against Parma at Olimpico
- Both teams to score occurred frequently in recent meetings
- Parma conceded 21 goals in previous 9-match losing streak to Lazio
Team News & Injuries
Parma Calcio 1913
Confirmed Out:
- Zion Suzuki (goalkeeper – broken hand, out until late February 2026)
- Adrián Bernabé (injury – key midfielder with 2 goals this season)
- Alessandro Circati (sprained ankle – early December return hoped)
- Matija Frigan (cruciate ligament injury – out until early March 2026)
- Abdoulaye Ndiaye (muscle injury – early December)
- Gabriel Charpentier (injury)
Doubtful:
- Adrián Benedyczak (late fitness test – 2 assists this season)
Available:
- Vicente Guaita (goalkeeper – recent signing as free agent)
- Enrico Del Prato (defender – 1 goal, 76 rating)
- Emanuele Valeri (defender)
- Matteo Cancellieri (attacking midfielder)
- Mateo Pellegrino (striker – 4 goals, leading scorer)
- Mandela Keita (midfielder)
- Ange-Yoan Bonny (striker – 1 goal)
- Dennis Man (midfielder)
- Hernani (midfielder)
- Simon Sohm (midfielder)
Manager Status: Carlos Cuesta available on touchline
Key Notes: The absence of regular goalkeeper Suzuki (broken hand) until February is a major blow. Losing Bernabé removes creativity from midfield, while defensive injuries compound their struggles. Pellegrino’s 4 goals make him crucial to their survival hopes.
SS Lazio
Confirmed Out:
- Mario Gila (defender – suspended for this match)
- Gustav Isaksen (winger – injury, may have finished his 2025)
- Nuno Tavares (left-back – injury issues)
- Manuel Lazzari (injury)
- Patric (injury)
- Reda Belahyane (suspended)
Doubtful:
- Florian Kainz (big doubt)
- Nuno Tavares (may return to bench after poor Bologna first half)
Key Players Available:
- Ivan Provedel (goalkeeper)
- Adam Marusic (defender)
- Alessio Romagnoli (captain and defensive leader)
- Luca Pellegrini (left-back – likely to start with Tavares issues)
- Nicolò Rovella (midfielder)
- Matteo Guendouzi (midfielder – 2 goals)
- Matteo Cancellieri (attacking midfielder – 3 goals)
- Mattia Zaccagni (forward – 5 goals, team’s leading scorer)
- Valentín Castellanos (striker – 2 goals)
- Boulaye Dia (forward – 1 goal)
- Danilo Cataldi (midfielder – 1 goal)
- Toma Bašić (midfielder – 1 goal)
Manager Status: Maurizio Sarri available on touchline
Key Notes: Gila’s suspension removes a key defender, forcing tactical adjustments. Isaksen’s potential season-ending injury removes attacking width. However, Lazio’s squad depth remains strong with Zaccagni (5 goals), Cancellieri (3 goals), and quality throughout.
Tactical Analysis
Parma’s Approach
Carlos Cuesta has implemented a pragmatic 4-3-3 formation designed to maximize defensive organization while providing quick counter-attacking opportunities. The Crociati’s survival depends on defensive discipline and capitalizing on rare scoring chances.
Key Tactical Points:
- Compact 4-3-3 or 3-5-2 defensive shape
- Deep defensive block to limit space
- Counter-attacks through Pellegrino’s pace
- Physical midfield presence
- Set-piece threat
- Quick transitions when winning possession
Strengths:
- Fighting spirit and determination
- Recent victory over Pisa boosted confidence
- Historic success against Lazio (3-1 last December)
- Home crowd passion at Tardini
- Pellegrino’s goalscoring threat (4 goals)
- Ability to frustrate better teams
Weaknesses:
- Worst attack in bottom half (10 goals in 14 matches)
- Defensive frailties (16 conceded)
- Missing key players (Suzuki, Bernabé, Circati, Frigan, Ndiaye)
- Poor home form (1-3-3 record)
- Limited creativity without Bernabé
- Relegation pressure affecting confidence
SS Lazio’s Approach
Maurizio Sarri’s possession-based philosophy emphasizes control, patient build-up, and defensive organization. However, Lazio’s inability to convert dominance into goals has plagued their season, leading to frustrating draws.
Key Tactical Points:
- Patient possession-based football (Sarri-ball)
- High defensive line with offside trap
- Build-up from goalkeeper
- Wing play through wide attackers
- Central midfield control
- Pressing in defensive third
Strengths:
- Incredible defensive record (unbeaten in 16 Serie A matches)
- Squad depth and quality throughout
- Zaccagni’s attacking threat (5 goals)
- Midfield control through Guendouzi and Rovella
- Experienced defenders (Romagnoli captain)
- Unbeaten away streak (7 matches)
Weaknesses:
- Cannot convert draws to wins (15 consecutive draws)
- Limited goalscoring (1.13 goals per game)
- Missing suspended Gila in defense
- Isaksen injury removes width
- Psychological scars from 3-1 defeat here last year
- Only won 1 of last 9 home matches
Key Battles
Mateo Pellegrino vs Alessio Romagnoli
Parma’s Argentine striker has been their most potent attacking threat with 4 goals this season, involved in 4 goals since his Serie A debut in February. The 22-year-old’s pace, movement, and clinical finishing will test Lazio captain Romagnoli’s positioning and experience. Romagnoli must marshal Lazio’s backline effectively without suspended partner Gila, making this battle crucial.
Mattia Zaccagni vs Parma’s Defense
Lazio’s leading scorer with 5 goals and their primary creative outlet, Zaccagni will be central to breaking down Parma’s defensive organization. His dribbling, vision, and finishing ability from wide positions make him Lazio’s most dangerous player. Del Prato and Parma’s makeshift defense must contain his threat.
Midfield Control: Parma’s Midfield vs Guendouzi & Rovella
This battle will determine possession and tempo. Lazio’s French-Italian duo must control the middle against Parma’s physical, combative midfielders. Guendouzi (2 goals) provides box-to-box energy while Rovella offers technical quality. Parma’s midfield must disrupt Lazio’s rhythm and win second balls to fuel counter-attacks.
Set-Pieces: Both Teams’ Aerial Threat
With both teams struggling for open-play goals, set-pieces could prove decisive. Lazio’s technical delivery versus Parma’s desperation to capitalize on rare opportunities makes dead-ball situations crucial. Romagnoli’s aerial presence versus Parma’s physical defenders will be key.
What The Managers Said
Carlos Cuesta (Parma): “Lazio are a top-quality side with excellent players, but we showed last December we can compete with them. Our fans remember that victory, and we need their energy. We must be organized, disciplined, and take our chances when they come. Every point is vital in our survival fight.”
Maurizio Sarri (Lazio): “We remember what happened here last year, and it still hurts. Parma will be motivated by that result, but we’re a different team now. Our unbeaten run shows our quality and consistency. We need to be patient, control the game, and convert our chances. Three points are essential for our European ambitions.”
Statistical Insights
Parma Statistics:
- Average 0.71 goals scored per match (10 in 14 games)
- Average 1.14 goals conceded per match (16 in 14)
- 47% of matches with Over 2.5 goals
- 68% of matches with Over 1.5 goals
- Poor home record: 1-3-3 (14.3% win rate at home)
- 151 shots taken (10.79 per match), 2.93 on target
Lazio Statistics:
- Average 1.13 goals scored per match (18 in 16 games)
- Excellent defensive record with multiple clean sheets
- Only 25% of matches with Over 2.5 goals
- Both teams scored in just 12.5% of matches (2 of 16)
- Unbeaten in 16 consecutive Serie A matches
- Cannot win in last 15 matches (all draws)
- Under 2.5 goals in last 17 matches
- Under 1.5 goals in last 9 away matches
Betting Insights:
- Lazio favorites at around 2.15 (13/10)
- Parma at 3.50 (5/2) reflecting underdog status
- Draw at 3.25 (9/4) – most likely outcome given Lazio’s draw streak
- Under 2.5 goals highly likely (occurred in 75% of Lazio’s matches)
- Both teams failing to score likely (occurred in 87.5% of Lazio matches)
Where to Watch
Italy:
- DAZN
- Sky Sport Serie A
- Sky Go App
- NOW TV
United Kingdom:
- TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport)
- Discovery+
United States:
- Paramount+
- CBS Sports Network
Nigeria:
- StarTimes
- SuperSport Football
- DStv
Streaming:
Available via respective broadcaster apps and streaming platforms
Match Predictions & Betting Tips
Form Analysis
This fixture presents a fascinating tactical chess match between Parma’s survival desperation and Lazio’s frustrating inability to convert control into victories. The Crociati will draw confidence from their stunning 3-1 victory in the reverse fixture last December, which demonstrated they can exploit Lazio’s defensive vulnerabilities despite being underdogs.
Lazio’s remarkable 16-match unbeaten run in Serie A showcases their defensive solidity and resilience. However, their inability to win in their last 15 Serie A matches (all draws) reveals a chronic problem converting dominance into three points. This psychological barrier could prove decisive at the Tardini.
Parma’s struggles are evident – 10 goals in 14 matches represents one of the league’s worst attacking outputs. Their massive injury crisis, particularly losing goalkeeper Suzuki until February and creative midfielder Bernabé, severely limits their options. However, desperation can inspire extraordinary performances, especially at home against opponents they’ve recently beaten.
Lazio’s squad quality clearly surpasses Parma’s, but their mental fragility when faced with organized defenses has cost them repeatedly. The absence of Gila through suspension weakens their defensive structure, while Isaksen’s injury removes attacking width. Facing a team that shocked them before creates psychological pressure.
The statistical trends overwhelmingly point toward a low-scoring affair. Lazio’s matches have featured Under 2.5 goals in 17 consecutive games, while Under 1.5 goals occurred in their last 9 away matches. Parma’s limited attacking threat (0.71 goals per game) suggests they’ll struggle to score multiple goals.
Predicted Lineups
Parma (4-3-3):
Guaita; Britschgi, Del Prato, Valenti, Valeri; Bernabé (if fit), Estevez, Keita; Oristanio, Pellegrino, Ondrejka
SS Lazio (4-3-3):
Provedel; Marusic, Provstgaard, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Cataldi, Guendouzi, Bašić; Cancellieri, Castellanos, Zaccagni
Score Prediction: Parma 1-1 SS Lazio
Reasoning:
This fixture has “low-scoring draw” written throughout the analysis. Lazio’s incredible 15-match consecutive draw streak in Serie A cannot be ignored – they’ve mastered the art of not losing but forgotten how to win. Facing Parma at the Tardini, where they suffered humiliation last December, adds psychological pressure that could prevent them from breaking this pattern.
Parma will approach with defensive organization and desperation, prioritizing not losing over attacking ambition given their relegation battle. Their limited attacking threat (10 goals in 14 matches) makes scoring multiple goals unlikely, but Pellegrino’s quality provides hope for at least one goal. The home crowd’s memory of the 3-1 victory will inspire resistance.
Lazio will dominate possession (60-65%), create more chances, and control tempo, but their chronic inability to convert dominance into goals will frustrate them. Zaccagni will threaten, but Parma’s desperate defensive effort will limit clear chances. Without Gila and Isaksen, Lazio lack the cutting edge to break down organized defenses consistently.
The statistical evidence supports a 1-1 draw:
- Lazio haven’t won in 15 consecutive Serie A matches (all draws)
- Under 2.5 goals in 17 consecutive Lazio matches
- Under 1.5 in 9 consecutive Lazio away matches
- Both teams failing to score in 87.5% of Lazio matches
- Parma’s limited goalscoring (0.71 per game average)
Expect a cagey, tactical affair with Parma defending deep, Lazio controlling possession but lacking penetration, and both teams taking a point. Parma will score first through a counter-attack or set-piece, Lazio will equalize through individual quality (likely Zaccagni), but neither will find a winner. This result keeps Parma’s survival hopes alive while Lazio’s European ambitions suffer another frustrating setback.
Alternative Scorelines:
- Parma 0-0 Lazio (35% probability)
- Lazio 1-0 Parma (20% probability)
- Parma 1-0 Lazio (15% probability)
Betting Tips
Recommended Bets:
- Draw – Best value at 3.25 (9/4) – Lazio’s 15-match draw streak is remarkable
- Under 2.5 Goals – Excellent odds at 1.50 (1/2) – Occurred in 17 consecutive Lazio matches
- Under 1.5 Goals – Strong value at 2.30 (13/10) – Very likely given both teams’ scoring struggles
- Both Teams Not To Score (BTTS – No) – Great odds at 1.60 (8/13) – Occurred in 87.5% of Lazio matches
- Match Result: Draw & Under 2.5 Goals – Combined bet at 4.00 (3/1) – Excellent value
Anytime Goalscorer Picks:
- Mattia Zaccagni – 2.75 (7/4) – Lazio’s top scorer with 5 goals
- Mateo Pellegrino – 3.50 (5/2) – Parma’s main threat with 4 goals
- Valentín Castellanos – 3.00 (2/1) – Quality striker
- Matteo Cancellieri – 3.75 (11/4) – 3 goals this season
Longshots:
- Correct Score: 1-1 – 6.50 (11/2)
- Correct Score: 0-0 – 8.00 (7/1)
- Half-time/Full-time: Draw/Draw – 5.00 (4/1)
- Pellegrino to score & Draw – 7.00 (6/1)
Final Verdict
This match represents a critical juncture for both clubs’ contrasting seasons. Parma desperately need points to escape the relegation zone, sitting precariously in 15th place with just 11 points from 14 matches. Every fixture is a battle for survival, and facing opponents they’ve recently beaten provides psychological encouragement despite their injury crisis.
For Lazio, this fixture presents an opportunity to finally break their extraordinary 15-match draw streak in Serie A and reignite their European qualification hopes. Sitting in 10th position is unacceptable for a club of their stature and ambitions. However, returning to the scene of their humiliating 3-1 defeat last December creates psychological pressure that could undermine their confidence.
The tactical battle will be fascinating. Parma’s desperation will fuel ultra-defensive organization, compact shape, and disciplined effort to frustrate Lazio’s possession game. They’ll defend deep with 10 men behind the ball when necessary, looking to exploit rare counter-attacking opportunities through Pellegrino’s pace. Without Bernabé’s creativity and Suzuki’s goalkeeping reliability, they’re severely handicapped but capable of grinding out results.
Lazio will dominate possession, control territory, and create more chances, but their chronic inability to convert superiority into goals has become a defining characteristic of their season. Sarri’s side have mastered defensive solidity (unbeaten in 16 Serie A matches) but forgotten how to win (0 wins in last 15 league matches). This psychological barrier, combined with missing Gila and Isaksen, suggests they’ll struggle to break down Parma’s organized resistance.
The statistical evidence overwhelmingly supports a low-scoring draw:
- Lazio’s 15 consecutive draws in Serie A is unprecedented
- Under 2.5 goals in 17 consecutive Lazio matches
- Under 1.5 in 9 consecutive Lazio away matches
- Both teams failing to score in 87.5% of Lazio’s matches
- Parma’s meager attacking output (0.71 goals per game)
The historical context adds intrigue. Lazio dominated this fixture before Parma’s shock 3-1 victory in December 2024, winning 9 consecutive encounters. That defeat still haunts the Biancocelesti, creating doubt when they should feel confident. Parma will feed off that memory, believing they can repeat the upset or at least earn a point.
Expect a cagey, tactical stalemate with minimal goalmouth action. Parma will defend resolutely, sacrificing attacking ambition for defensive organization. Lazio will pass patiently without penetration, creating half-chances but lacking the clinical edge to convert them. Both teams will take a point – Parma satisfied with survival progress, Lazio frustrated with another dropped opportunity.
Final Prediction: Parma 1-1 SS Lazio
A low-scoring draw seems inevitable, with both teams taking a point that neither truly wanted. Parma will score through a counter-attack or set-piece (likely Pellegrino), Lazio will equalize through individual quality (likely Zaccagni), but neither will find a winner. This result keeps Parma fighting in the relegation battle while Lazio’s European qualification hopes suffer another frustrating setback in their seemingly endless draw streak. The Tardini will witness another tactical stalemate between cautious opponents lacking the cutting edge to force victory.
