Empoli vs Genoa face off in a crucial Serie A clash this weekend, with both teams looking to end the year on a high note. The match, set to take place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, in Florence, promises to be a tightly contested affair. Empoli, struggling for consistency, will host a Genoa side that has shown defensive solidity under new manager Patrick Vieira.
Empoli Preview: Searching for Stability
Empoli began the season brightly under Roberto D’Aversa, but their form has dipped significantly in recent weeks. The team has managed just one win in their last six Serie A matches, including a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to league leaders Atalanta last weekend. Despite taking an early lead in that game, Empoli’s defensive frailties were exposed once again.
Injuries have also plagued the squad, with key players like Saba Sazonov, Ola Solbakken, and Pietro Pellegri sidelined. These absences have left D’Aversa struggling to implement his attacking philosophy effectively.
Empoli Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Devis Vasquez
Defenders (DF):
- Center-backs: Goglichidze, Ismajli, Cacace
Midfielders (MF):
- Right wing-back: Gyasi
- Central midfielders: Anjorin, Grassi
- Left wing-back: Pezzella
Attacking midfielders (AM):
- Colombo, Henderson
Forward (FW):
Striker: Esposito
Unavailable: Ebuehi, Sazonov, Viti, Haas, Zurkowski, Solbakken, Pellegri (all injured)
🔜 #EmpoliGenoa pic.twitter.com/gR4vt2g6Pf
— Empoli Football Club Official (@EmpoliFC) December 26, 2024
Genoa Preview: Vieira’s Defensive Approach
Genoa, under the guidance of Patrick Vieira, has focused on tightening their defense since the former Arsenal midfielder took charge. While their attacking play remains a work in progress, the team has shown resilience, earning two draws and a win in Vieira’s first three matches.
Last weekend, Genoa faced a tough challenge against Napoli, where they fell 2-1 despite a spirited performance. Andrea Pinamonti’s late goal offered a glimpse of their attacking potential, but consistency in the final third remains elusive.
Genoa Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Leali
Defenders (DF):
- Right-back: Sabelli
- Center-backs: Bani, Johan Vasquez
- Left-back: Caricol
Midfielders (MF):
- Defensive/central midfielders: Badelj, Frendrup
- Attacking midfielders: Zanoli, Miretti, Vitinha
Forward (FW):
Striker: Pinamonti
Unavailable: Malinovskiy, Junior Messias (injured)
Questionable: De Winter, Ekhator (injured)
La lista dei convocati per #EmpoliGenoa 📃 pic.twitter.com/MpOYOvyFIl
— Genoa CFC (@GenoaCFC) December 27, 2024
Key Match Insights
- Empoli’s Struggles: Empoli’s inability to maintain leads and their defensive lapses have been a recurring issue this season.
- Genoa’s Solidity: Vieira’s focus on defensive organization has made Genoa a tough team to break down, but their attack still lacks fluency.
- Injury Impact: Both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns, which could influence the outcome of the match.
Prediction: A Low-Scoring Affair
Empoli’s recent form and injury woes make this a challenging fixture for the home side. Meanwhile, Genoa’s defensive approach under Vieira suggests a cautious game plan. With both teams struggling for attacking rhythm, a low-scoring match seems likely.
Prediction: Under 2.5 goals
This clash between Empoli and Genoa is set to be a tactical battle, with both sides aiming to avoid mistakes and capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses. While Empoli will look to rediscover their early-season form, Genoa’s defensive discipline could frustrate the hosts.
