This Saturday, the picturesque Stadio Carlo Castellani sets the stage for a crucial Serie A encounter as Empoli, desperate to claw their way out of the relegation mire, host Napoli, who are equally eager to salvage their season by securing a European spot.
As Empoli fight to avoid the drop and Napoli looks to reassert their top-tier status, this matchup promises not only a fierce clash but pivotal consequences for both teams' season aspirations.
Current Form
Empoli's Current Form
Empoli find themselves battling the spectre of relegation, having lost five of their last six Serie A fixtures.
The Tuscans have been particularly goal-shy since March, notching the fewest goals in the league during this period, which has exacerbated their precarious position just above the relegation zone.
Napoli's Current Form
Napoli, the soon-to-be dethroned Serie A champions, are fighting for a spot in European competitions next season.
Despite a disappointing 2-2 draw with Frosinone in their last outing, where they relinquished the lead twice, they remain in the chase for a top-six finish, sitting just two points behind sixth-placed Atalanta with a game in hand.
Team News
Empoli Team News
Empoli will be without Ghanaian winger Emmanuel Gyasi, who misses out due to yellow card accumulation.
Additionally, they face injuries with Tyronne Ebuehi sidelined for the season, although Ardian Ismajli might return from a thigh injury.
Napoli Team News
Napoli will make enforced changes in defence, as Amir Rrahmani and Mario Rui are unavailable due to suspensions.
Juan Jesus is likely to step in despite recent back issues, while adjustments may be needed to cover for the injured left-back Mathias Olivera.
Key Players
Empoli's Key Players
Despite their struggles, Empoli will look to players like Alberto Cerri and the versatile M'Baye Niang to spearhead their attack, with the hope of securing vital points at home.
Napoli's Key Players
Napoli will rely heavily on Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, both of whom have been pivotal since Francesco Calzona's return as manager, contributing significantly in terms of goals and assists.
Scoreline Prediction
Although Empoli has historically given Napoli a tough time, the urgency of Napoli's quest for European qualification might just tip the scales.
We expect a closely contested match where Napoli's need for points could edge out a narrow victory.
Our Prediction: Empoli 1-2 Napoli
FAQ
Who is missing for Napoli? Amir Rrahmani and Mario Rui are suspended, while Mathias Olivera is injured.
What is at stake for Empoli? Empoli are fighting to avoid relegation and need points to stay above the drop zone.
What time does the match start? The match is scheduled for 20th April 2024 at 5:00 PM UK time.
Where will the match be played? The match will take place at Stadio Carlo Castellani in Empoli.
