The Parma Panthers (1–0) outdueled the Milano Rhinos (0–1) 58–56 in a four-overtime thriller that set a new standard for offensive fireworks in the opening round of the Italian Football League, with both teams combining for 114 points in a back-and-forth battle that lasted over three hours.
Rhinos offense shines despite special teams woes
Milano quarterback Darius Perrantes, recently arrived from NCAA Division I FCS program Duquesne, put on a spectacular performance, rallying his team from a 42–28 fourth-quarter deficit to force overtime. The Rhinos offense scored consistently throughout the game, with receiver Roberto Zanovello finding the endzone four times. However, special teams struggles – including multiple missed extra points and kickoff errors that gave Parma excellent field position – repeatedly hampered Milano’s momentum.
Back-and-forth overtime drama
The teams traded scores through three overtime periods before Parma finally secured victory when defensive back Samuele Coppello intercepted a pass in the endzone during the fourth overtime session. The Panthers had built their early lead behind efficient offensive execution, taking a 28–20 halftime advantage and stretching it to two touchdowns late in the third quarter before Perrantes mounted his comeback.
While Parma begins their season with a hard-fought road victory, the game revealed concerns about their typically stout defense that conceded only 16 points per game last season. For Milano, the performance demonstrated explosive offensive potential but highlighted significant needs for improvement on special teams and defensive consistency moving forward.