Parrott's Late Strike Gives AZ Alkmaar Crucial 1-0 Win Over AS Roma

Troy Parrott scored a late winner as AZ Alkmaar secured a crucial 1-0 victory over AS Roma in the UEFA Europa League, strengthening their grip on a play-off spot.

AZ Alkmaar strengthened their grip on a UEFA Europa League play-off spot with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AS Roma at the AFAS stadium. This win extended AZ's unbeaten home run against Italian opposition to four matches, showcasing their resilience and defensive solidity.

The match began cautiously, with both teams struggling to create scoring opportunities. It wasn't until the 25th minute that AZ's Sven Mijnans broke through on goal, but his chipped effort was blocked by the recovering Manu Kone. This chance seemed to open up the game, and Artem Dovbyk soon tested AZ goalkeeper Rome Jayden Owusu-Oduro with a 25-yard shot, although the effort lacked conviction.

Troy Parrott. AZ's hero 🌟#UEL pic.twitter.com/xk3HeZGBN0

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) January 23, 2025

As the first half drew to a close, AZ gained the upper hand, and Evan Ndicka's weak clearance presented Mexx Meerdink with a promising opportunity. However, Meerdink failed to capitalize, lashing his shot high and wide from 10 yards, ensuring the scores remained level at halftime.

Roma emerged with renewed energy after the break, having scored four of their last five goals in the second period. Paulo Dybala came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock with a half-volley that grazed the crossbar. Despite maintaining a high tempo, Roma continued to struggle in the final third, with Angelino's whipped cross into the six-yard box evading all comers.

Just as the match seemed destined for a goalless stalemate, AZ launched a late counter-attack, and substitute Troy Parrott seized the opportunity to score his 12th goal of the campaign. Parrott finished past Mile Svilar from David Wolfe's low cross, securing a crucial three points for AZ and extending their unbeaten UEFA Europa League run to four matches.

This victory puts AZ in control of their qualification destiny ahead of matchday eight, although they will require significant help from other teams to reach the top eight. Meanwhile, Roma's frustration was evident throughout, and Claudio Ranieri's side now find themselves in a precarious position heading into the final round of fixtures.