Empoli and Cagliari will clash on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM (Brasília time) at the Estádio Carlo Castellani in Empoli for the 31st round of the Italian Serie A. This match is crucial for both teams as they fight to avoid relegation, with Empoli currently sitting in 18th place with 23 points, while Cagliari is in 15th position with 29 points, just six points above their rivals.
The stakes couldn't be higher for Empoli, who are desperate for a win to escape the relegation zone. They have not won in 17 games, suffering 12 losses during this stretch. Their last outing was a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home against Bologna, which left them firmly entrenched in the bottom three. The last time Empoli tasted victory was on December 8, 2024, when they defeated Hellas Verona away from home.
In contrast, Cagliari comes into this match with a bit of momentum, having secured a 3-0 victory against Monza in their last game. This win snapped a five-match winless streak in the league, but they still find themselves in a precarious position, needing to distance themselves from the relegation battle.
The historical context of this matchup favors Empoli, who have won 11 of the 23 encounters between the two teams, while Cagliari has claimed victory in seven, with five matches ending in draws. The most recent clash occurred earlier this season, where Empoli emerged victorious with a 2-0 win away from home.
As both teams prepare for this vital encounter, the expected lineups have been confirmed. Empoli's coach, Roberto D'Aversa, will field Vasquez in goal, with a defensive line comprising Goglichidze, Marianucci, and Viti, while Pezzella and Cacace will operate as wing-backs. In midfield, Grassi, Henderson, and Sambia will look to control the game, and up front, Kouamè and Esposito will lead the attack. Esposito, the standout player for Empoli this season, has scored five goals and will be key in their quest for a much-needed win.
Cagliari's lineup, managed by Claudio Ranieri, is expected to feature Sherri in goal, with Zappa, Mina, Luperto, and Augello forming the defense. The midfield will consist of Nandez, Makoumbou, Deiola, and Jankto, while Lapadula and Oristanio will spearhead the attack. Lapadula, who has netted four goals this season, will be looking to exploit any defensive lapses from Empoli.
Recent performances indicate that both teams have struggled offensively. Empoli has failed to score in three of their last five matches, while Cagliari has not found the back of the net in three of their last five away games. This trend suggests that fans may witness a low-scoring affair.
The match will be officiated by Federico La Penna, assisted by Zingarelli and Marcello Rossi, with Prontera as the fourth official. VAR will be overseen by Aureliano, with Marini acting as AVAR. The presence of experienced officials will be crucial in maintaining control over this high-stakes encounter.
Fans in Brazil can catch the action live on DAZN, ESPN Centroamérica y México, and Disney+. The excitement around the match is palpable, as both squads are aware of the implications this game holds for their respective seasons.
Looking ahead, the weather in Empoli is expected to be favorable for football, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C, partly cloudy skies, and a low chance of rain. These conditions promise an ideal setting for what could be a thrilling contest.
Analysts predict a tightly contested match, with Empoli having a slight edge due to their home advantage. A win for Empoli could lift them out of the relegation zone, depending on other match results, while a victory for Cagliari would provide them with a much-needed cushion above the drop zone.
In terms of tactical approaches, Empoli is likely to adopt a 3-5-2 formation, focusing on ball possession and wing play, while Cagliari is expected to employ a more compact 4-4-2 setup, prioritizing midfield control and quick counter-attacks. The battle between the midfielders from both teams will be crucial in determining who controls the game.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the anticipation builds. Fans of Empoli are expected to fill the stands, creating an electrifying atmosphere at the Carlo Castellani. After a disappointing exit from the Coppa Italia, the Serie A remains their last hope for a successful season, and the players will be eager to deliver a performance worthy of their supporters.
Injuries have plagued Empoli this season, with several key players sidelined, including Anjorin, Haas, Ismajli, Maleh, Pellegri, Sazonov, and Kurkowski. Despite these challenges, D'Aversa's starting eleven appears strong enough to compete fiercely against Cagliari.
On the other side, Cagliari is relatively healthy, giving Ranieri the flexibility to adjust his tactics as needed during the match. The experience of the veteran coach may prove invaluable in navigating the pressures of this encounter.
Ultimately, the outcome of this match could significantly impact both teams' seasons. With only seven rounds left in the Serie A after this weekend, every point is vital. A win for Empoli could change their fortunes, while a loss could deepen their troubles. For Cagliari, a victory would not only relieve pressure but also potentially secure their place in the top tier for another season.
As the teams take to the pitch, the hopes and dreams of their respective fanbases rest on their shoulders. Will Empoli finally break their winless streak, or will Cagliari continue their resurgence? The answer awaits as the whistle blows at the Carlo Castellani.
