Empoli – Roma

Roma will have no problems against Empoli

For the second match in a row, Roma concede. After a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Udinese, the Wolves suffered a setback in the Europa League. There, the Romans managed to finish the away game against Ludogorets 2-1 in total domination. If the encounter with the Friulians could be explained by their preparation for the European competitions, then how can we explain the result in Bulgaria? Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini was adamant that there should not be the third loss. The only thing that does not favour the Giallorossi is the calendar: they have a match against HJK (at home) and a meeting with Atalanta. The team needs to prepare both physically and mentally. Empoli are not performing as well as they did last year. With the change of the coach, the team started to play without any zest, too modestly. And while in five rounds, the Azzurri have lost just once (to La Spezia in the first leg), four draws in the remaining matches can hardly be regarded as a success. All the more so because only Fiorentina and partly Verona (albeit not the most stable) can be described as strong opponents. Splitting points with Salernitana and Lecce will complicate the team's task, because these rivals can become the main rivals in the fight for survival. This game could be the first serious test for Paolo Zanetti's side. And there are certain doubts that they will pass this test. Roma have both Abraham and Karsdorp coming off the bench after sustaining minor injuries. Zaniolo is on the way up and could end up on the bench at the very least. Despite a tough calendar, Jose Mourinho's men must prove their superiority. It is worth noting that the Romans have beaten the Azzurri in five meetings. And in the last fixture, both wins were by a margin of two goals. A third loss for the Wolves, especially against such an opponent, is unlikely.