Serie A
Cagliari edge Parma in opener as Romano strikes late
Alessandro Romano's 79th-minute winner handed Cagliari all three points in a tight Serie A opener at Parma.
Parma and Cagliari opened their Serie A campaigns at the Stadio Ennio Tardini with a tightly contested affair that was decided late in the second half.
The hosts, coached by Carlos Cuesta in a 4-3-3 setup, created the brighter early chances but were unable to break down a resolute Cagliari defence organised by Fabio Pisacane in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Cagliari's defensive resolve was tested, with J. Pedro picking up a yellow card in the 10th minute following a robust challenge, but the visitors largely kept their shape throughout the opening period.
The first half ended goalless, with neither side able to find a decisive touch in the final third despite several half-chances.
The deadlock was broken in the 79th minute when A. Romano found the net, capitalising on an assist from M. Adopo to give Cagliari the lead they deserved.
Parma pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with their attacking trio working hard to create space, but the Cagliari backline held firm under pressure.
J. Fazzini was booked for Cagliari in the 58th minute as the game grew increasingly physical in midfield, but the visitors managed to maintain their composure and protect their advantage.
Despite late delivery from Parma, Cagliari's organisation and the quality of the decisive moment proved enough, with referee Daniele Perenzoni seeing the match to its conclusion without further incident.
The result leaves Parma bottom of the table after matchday one, while Cagliari sit in third place with three points from their opening fixture.
The win gives Cagliari momentum heading into their next fixture, whilst Parma will look to regroup quickly and address the gaps in their attacking play.
It was a performance defined by defensive solidity and a moment of individual quality, with Romano's strike ultimately making the difference in a match that will be remembered for its tactical discipline rather than goalmouth drama.
Both coaches will take encouragement from their teams' organisation, though Cagliari's ability to strike at the decisive moment gave them the edge in what was a cagey, professional opening encounter.
Looking ahead, Cagliari travel next, while Parma host their upcoming opponents at the Tardini, both sides aware that early-season form can set the tone for the months ahead.
The points are firmly in the bag for Cagliari, and their defensive record will give them confidence as they build momentum through the early stages of the campaign.
Parma, meanwhile, must address their lack of cutting edge in the final third if they are to climb away from the foot of the table.
With only goal in the match coming from Romano's well-taken effort, the evening belonged to the visitors, who executed their game plan with discipline and precision.