Serie A, Matchday 12: Roma Returns to the Top, Milan Wins Derby, and Napoli Keeps Pace

Matchday 12 of Serie A delivered excitement and confirmations in an increasingly tight Scudetto race. Roma, led by Gian Piero Gasperini, won 3-1 away at Cremonese, thus returning to the top of the table and overtaking Napoli. The Giallorossi demonstrated excellent away form, securing their twelfth win in sixteen matches this calendar year.

Roma, Victory and Leadership in Cremona

The match in Cremona saw Roma take the lead in the 16th minute with a goal from Soulé, assisted by Koné. Cremonese tried to react, but VAR repeatedly nullified goals and penalties for the home side. In the second half, Roma capitalized on a red card shown to Cremonese’s coach Nicola Gasperini for protests. At the 64th minute, Ferguson scored his first goal in a Roma shirt, followed by Wesley, both key players in the resounding victory. Only in stoppage time did Folino manage to score a consolation goal for Cremonese. This win allows Roma to extend their lead at the top with a two-point margin over Napoli.

Milan Beats Inter in Derby: Pulisic Decides

In the Milan derby, AC Milan secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a 54th-minute strike by Pulisic, a crucial win that brings the Rossoneri within two points of the top. Inter hit the woodwork twice and missed a penalty, with Calhanoglu’s attempt saved by Maignan, the true hero of the evening. Simone Chivu’s team showed intensity but lacked finishing in front of goal. For Allegri’s Milan, this is an important signal in the title race.

Napoli Holds Strong: 3-1 Against Atalanta

Napoli secured a convincing 3-1 home win over Atalanta. Neres scored a brace in the first half, followed by a headed goal from Lang. In the second half, Scamacca pulled one back for Atalanta, but Napoli did not concede further chances to the visitors. This victory keeps Napoli in contention with Roma at the top of the table.

Lazio and Parma: Important Wins

Lazio defeated Lecce 2-0 with goals from Guendouzi and Noslin, securing three vital points in their push for European qualification despite fan protests against Lotito. Meanwhile, Parma won 2-1 away at Verona thanks to a brace from Pellegrino, a crucial result to climb out of the relegation zone, leaving the Veneti at the bottom of the table.

Draws and Hopes

Among other matches, Cagliari and Genoa played out a thrilling 3-3 draw with constant lead changes. Fiorentina held Juventus to a 1-1 draw in a match marred by tense moments due to racist chants aimed at Vlahovic. Meanwhile, Bologna continued their surprising run with a 3-0 win over Udinese, consolidating their position in the Champions League race.

The Big Teams Fight On: The Championship is Wide Open

Serie A now features a tight group of five teams at the top, with Juventus trailing seven points behind, still winless against the more prestigious rivals. The trio of Roma, Napoli, and Milan remains the fiercest at the summit, while Lazio and Bologna push for European spots. In the relegation zone, Parma is temporarily out of danger, but Verona and Fiorentina are at risk, with Andrea Zanetti’s position under increasing pressure.

Matchday 12 reaffirmed the competitiveness of the Italian championship, with high-intensity clashes and unexpected surprises. The title race is more alive than ever, and the next round promises new spectacles and twists.