Empoli vs Bologna predictions ahead of this affair in Serie A. Empoli and Bologna will kick off the Serie A weekend with their match at Stadio Carlo Castellani on Friday night. Can the hosts get precious points for safety? Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Serie A | Gameweek 29 – Mar 15, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Stadio Carlo Castellani
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Empoli vs Bologna Predictions
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A Clash For Precious Points At The Stadio Castellani
Key Stats
– Empoli has scored a mere 22 goals in 28 matches, highlighting their attacking woes.
– Bologna sits comfortably in the top four, thanks to a six-match winning streak in Serie A.
– The last four encounters at Carlo Castellani have ended in defeat for Bologna, conceding 12 goals.
As the Serie A gears up for another electrifying weekend, the spotlight falls on the Stadio Carlo Castellani, where Empoli and Bologna are set to clash in a fixture that promises to be more than just a battle for three points. On one side, we have Bologna, a team buzzing with Champions League aspirations, while on the other, Empoli fights with the spectre of relegation looming over them. This match is not just about the clash of two teams but a battle of contrasting strategies, managerial acumen, and the sheer will to transcend expectations.
Empoli’s Struggle for Survival
Empoli enters this fray on the back of a challenging season, wherein consistency has eluded them, manifesting in their precarious position just above the relegation zone. The recent managerial appointment of Davide Nicola sought to inject a new lease of life into the team, and while there was an initial uptick in performances, the momentum has somewhat stalled with back-to-back defeats.
The team’s struggle is underscored by a palpable difficulty in finding the back of the net, as evidenced by their meagre tally of 22 goals in 28 matches. This offensive impotence is further exacerbated by the absence of key midfielders due to suspension and injuries, placing additional pressure on M’Baye Niang and Szymon Zurkowski to step up and lead the charge against a robust Bologna defence.
Bologna’s European Dream
On the contrary, Bologna, under the stewardship of Thiago Motta, have been a revelation this season. Despite a recent hiccup against Inter Milan, their form has been nothing short of spectacular, propelling them into the top four with a realistic shot at securing Champions League football. Their success has been built on a solid defensive foundation and a more pragmatic approach in the absence of Joshua Zirkzee. With Zirkzee sidelined, Bologna’s attack has lacked its usual sharpness, a concern that will need addressing if they are to breach Empoli’s defence.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Setup
Empoli are likely to start with Caprile; Bereszynski, Walukiewicz, Luperto; Gyasi, Zurkowski, Marin, Maleh, Pezzella; Niang, Cambiaghi. For Bologna, the expected lineup includes Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Calafiori, Kristiansen; Freuler, Ferguson, Fabbian; Orsolini, Odgaard, Saelemaekers. Bologna’s midfield trio, anchored by Lewis Ferguson, has been instrumental this season, offering both defensive solidity and creative spark. Empoli, on the other hand, will rely heavily on their flanks to penetrate Bologna’s well-organised defence, making the battle on the wings crucial.
Decisive Battles and Managerial Mind Games
The match could well be decided in midfield, where Bologna’s prowess in ball retention and tactical flexibility will clash with Empoli’s urgency and tenacity. Key player duels, such as Niang versus Bologna’s central defense, and the creative tussle between Ferguson and Zurkowski, could pivot the game’s outcome. Motta’s strategic acumen will be tested against Nicola’s desperation for points, setting the stage for a fascinating tactical battle.
Predictions and Insights
Best Bet: Bologna to Win with Only 1 Goal Margin (Handicap Tie – Empoli +1)
Considering both teams’ form and the pressure of the occasion, Bologna is favoured to edge this encounter. However, their recent goal-scoring form without Zirkzee, combined with Empoli’s desperate fight for survival, suggests a narrow victory. Expect Bologna’s quality to prevail, but only just.
Correct Score Prediction: Empoli 0-1 Bologna
Given Bologna’s tight defence and Empoli’s offensive struggles, a low-scoring affair is anticipated. Bologna’s ability to grind out results, coupled with Empoli’s inefficiency in front of goal, points to a solitary goal deciding the match.
Goalscorer Prediction: Riccardo Orsolini to Score
Orsolini’s knack for crucial goals and his role in Bologna’s attacking setup, especially in Zirkzee’s absence, makes him a prime candidate to find the net in this tightly contested match.
Corner Prediction: Bologna to Earn More Corners; Total Corners Over 9.5
Bologna’s attacking approach, focusing on width and crosses, should see them earn more corners. The game’s dynamics, with both teams pushing for a result, likely means a higher number of total corners as attacks become more desperate.
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