Having played 17 matches this season, Empoli have only managed to secure four wins, a statistic that places significant pressure on their offensive unit. While they’ve salvaged draws in seven encounters, their tally of just 16 goals showcases a lack of cutting-edge in attack, failing to even hit an average of one goal per game.

Coach Roberto D’Aversa is undoubtedly aware of this shortcoming and will be striving to rectify their goal-scoring woes. Empoli’s tenacity in defence and midfield control may offer a sturdy foundation, but the need for sharper attacking combinations and clinical finishing cannot be overstated. With an important clash against Genoa looming at their home ground, the team will be looking to capitalize on this opportunity to reignite their campaign. A spirited and dynamic performance, coupled with a focus on converting chances, could help Empoli shift gears in what has been a relatively lacklustre offensive display so far this season.

Genoa find themselves in 11th position on the Serie A table, just within striking distance of Empoli, their upcoming opponents. A win in this fixture would not only equalize their points tally but also provide a much-needed morale boost. However, their overall performance this season has been far from convincing.

With just three wins in 17 matches, Genoa’s struggles are evident. Their recent form has done little to inspire confidence, with only one victory in their last five outings, further highlighting their inconsistency. Their most recent encounter ended in disappointment as they fell to Antonio Conte’s Napoli.

Despite a spirited second-half effort led by Andrea Pinamonti, who spearheaded a potential comeback, Genoa ultimately fell short, allowing Napoli to walk away with all three points. This result underscores Genoa’s inability to sustain pressure against higher-calibre opposition.

As they prepare to face Empoli, Genoa will need to address their defensive lapses and inefficiencies in converting chances. With Pinamonti showing glimpses of form, the team will be hoping to harness his attacking prowess while tightening their backline. A well-rounded and determined performance will be crucial if Genoa are to bounce back and reignite their Serie A campaign.

Kick-off:

Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 7:30 PM IST

Venue: Stadio Carlo Castellani, Empoli, Italy

Form:

Empoli (in all competitions): L-L-W-W-L

Genoa (in all competitions): L-D-D-W-D

Players to watch out for:

Lorenzo Colombo (Empoli)

Lorenzo Colombo, a promising 22-year-old Italian centre-forward from Vimercate, has showcased his immense potential through his stints with various clubs. Having been part of AC Milan since 2020, Colombo has spent the majority of his career gaining valuable experience on loan, with spells at Lecce, Monza, and now Empoli.

The young striker has also been a key figure in the Italian youth setup, making 20 appearances and netting four goals for the Italian Under-21 team. Known for his technical finesse and clinical finishing, Colombo’s talent was highlighted when he won the Serie A Goal of the Month award in August 2022, further cementing his reputation as a rising star in Italian football.

Andrea Pinamonti (Genoa)

Andrea Pinamonti, the 25-year-old Italian striker from Cles, has been a standout performer for Genoa during his loan stint from Sassuolo. Having made 16 appearances so far, his impact in the final third has been noteworthy, showcasing his potential as a clinical finisher. Pinamonti’s footballing journey began at Inter Milan, where limited opportunities led him to seek game time elsewhere.

He initially joined Genoa but found his role constrained. However, his breakthrough came during his loan spell with Sassuolo in the 2022-23 season, where he established himself as a pivotal figure in their attacking setup. Pinamonti’s talent was evident even at a young age, as he played a key role in Italy’s triumph at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2018.

As Genoa prepare for their crucial clash against Empoli, Pinamonti will aim to translate his promising form into decisive moments on the pitch. His ability to find the back of the net could prove instrumental in Genoa’s quest to climb the Serie A standings and overcome their recent struggles.

Match Facts

• Empoli boast a 26% win accuracy over their opponents.
• Genoa drew three of their last five matches.
• Empoli won two games of their last five matches.

Empoli vs Genoa – Betting Tips and Odds:

• Empoli to win the match – 1/12 with bet365
• Colombo to score first – 3/1 with William Hill
• Empoli 3-0 Genoa

Injuries and Team News:

Empoli’s list of absentees includes Mattia Viti, Saba Sazonov and Nicolas Haas.

Genoa will most likely miss the presence of Giorgio Cittadini and Jr. Messias in the upcoming match.

Head to Head stats:

Total matches – 38

Empoli won – 10

Genoa won – 11

Matches drawn – 17

Predicted Lineup:

Empoli predicted lineup (3-4-2-1):

Vasquez (GK); Goglichidze, Ismajli, Cacace; Gyasi, Anjorin, Grassi, Pezzella; Colombo, Henderson; Esposito

Genoa predicted lineup (4-2-3-1):

Leali (GK); Sabelli, Bani, Vasquez, Caricol; Badelj, Frendrup; Zanoli, Miretti, Oliveira; Pinamonti

Match Prediction:

The home team have a golden opportunity to seize all three points and solidify their position. We expect them to not just triumph victorious but also cause goal havoc.

Prediction: Empoli 3-0 Genoa

Telecast Details:

India: GXR World

UK: TNT Sports 2

USA: fubo TV, Paramount+

Nigeria: DStv Now, SuperSport

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