Separated by two points and two places in the Serie A standings, Empoli and Sassuolo will meet at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on Sunday, both striving to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Match Preview
Empoli, under veteran coach Aurelio Andreazzoli, claimed a surprising 1-0 victory against reigning champions Napoli before the international break.
This victory, despite a poor start to the season, lifted Empoli out of the relegation zone.
However, Empoli’s home form has been concerning, winning only one of their six home matches and scoring just once at Stadio Castellani.
The team’s inability to score has been evident, with only five goals in their first dozen fixtures.
Sassuolo, too, has faced their share of struggles, managing just one win in their last 10 away league games.
They’ve accumulated 12 points so far this season and are under pressure to improve results.
Their last league victory came in late September against Inter Milan, and they’ve conceded more goals on the road than any other team this year.
Team News
Empoli might miss Tommaso Baldanzi due to an ankle injury, while Giuseppe Pezzella is confirmed unavailable. Their key player Francesco Caputo will be crucial upfront against his former club.
Sassuolo’s Matheus Henrique has recovered from a hamstring injury and might feature in midfield, but Pedro Obiang and Agustin Alvarez are unavailable.
Domenico Berardi, Sassuolo’s winger, has been involved in key moments against Empoli and will play a significant role.
Possible Lineups
Empoli possible starting lineup:(4-3-2-1)
Berisha;
Bereszynski, Ismajli, Luperto, Cacace;
Fazzini, Grassi, Maleh;
Cambiaghi, Cancellieri;
Caputo
Sassuolo possible starting lineup:(4-2-3-1)
Consigli;
Toljan, Erlic, Ferrari, Vina;
Boloca, Henrique;
Berardi, Thorstvedt, Lauriente;
Pinamonti
Prediction: Empoli 0-0 Sassuolo
In their previous encounters, Empoli and Sassuolo have never drawn a match. However, given the current limitations of both teams, a draw might be on the cards as they struggle to secure a win.