Udinese – Empoli

Empoli must fight for points in a match against a direct rival

Fabio Cannavaro's arrival at Udinese improved the team's results, but did not improve the game. However, in three full matches Fabio took five points and took the team out of the relegation zone. In the last round Friulians met with Lecce, who guaranteed themselves a place in the relegation zone. Goals from Lucca and Samardzic brought the Bianconeri three points, but the result could have been completely different. In the second half, the Wolves created plenty of chances to equalise. However, it was obvious that the Giallorossi didn't need this match. Udinese were also lucky in the match against Napoli. The team equalised and earned one point thanks to Saxesse's goal in the 90+2nd minute. Empoli lost to Lazio in the match of the last round. The Tuscans conceded at the end of both halves, although they can hardly call this score fair. As in some previous matches, Davide Nicola's wards failed to realise some extremely good chances. Over the last three rounds, the Adzurri have scored 2.01 goals according to the xG metric. How many have they actually scored? Zero. The recent results contrast with those immediately after Davide Nicola's arrival. Empoli currently sit in 18th place and have 32 points to their credit. Frosinone have the same number of points, Udinese and Cagliari are one point ahead of the Adzurri and Verona are two points ahead. In the last round Nicola's wards will have to play with Empoli. Obviously, the opponent is not the best, even taking into account the lack of motivation. However, the regulations can save the team even in case of failure. The point is that in the case of equal points with 17th place, there will be a face-to-face match. But it's obviously not worth it. This meeting is extremely important for each of the clubs. However, it is the failure of Empoli that could put an end to the team's chances of salvation. The first round encounter between the teams ended in a "dry" draw. Then, it is important to note, the clubs played under completely different coaches. Although now it is unlikely to expect a zero score on the scoreboard, the chances of a draw are still great. Despite the recent setbacks, Empoli do not look weaker than their opponent. "Adzurri" must take points in an extremely important match.