Empoli vs AC Milan
Serie A
Sunday
7th January 2024
Stadio Carlo Castellani – Computer Gross Arena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Serie A fixture between Empoli and AC Milan.
Empoli vs AC Milan: Preview
Empoli form analysis
Despite being tough to beat, Empoli’s recent league form shows they still lack cutting edge in attack. After rescuing a late 1-1 draw away at Genoa on December 2nd, Empoli repeated the scoreline a week later in a home draw with Lecce – an unfortunate Rafia own goal cancelling out L. Banda’s opener. Empoli then suffered consecutive 1-0 defeats, away at Torino on December 17th courtesy of a D. Zapata goal before losing by the same scoreline at home to Lazio on December 22nd.
Struggles in front of goal continued after the winter break as Empoli drew a blank in a goalless home draw with relegation rivals Cagliari on December 30th. Overall, Empoli has remained organized defensively under Paolo Zanetti but impotence in attack has cost them valuable points recently. Unlocking their forwards’ potential seems key if Empoli are to translate tight defeats into victories. More incision to turn their defensive resilience into counter attacking chances must be found if Empoli are to push towards a mid-table finish rather than be slowly sucked into a tense battle at the bottom in the second half of the campaign.
AC Milan form analysis
AC Milan’s form has been inconsistent lately. After easily beating Serie A newcomers Frosinone 3-1 at home on December 3rd, Milan suffered a last gasp 2-3 home loss in a thrilling encounter against Atalanta on December 9th, undone by a late L. Muriel winner. Milan responded emphatically by hammering Monza 3-0 away from home a week later, sparking hopes of a turning point under Stefano Pioli. However, defensive issues resurfaced in an entertaining 2-2 draw away at struggling Salernitana on December 23rd, twice letting a lead slip. Milan ended 2023 with a key 1-0 home victory over top six hopefuls Sassuolo on December 30th though, C. Pulišić netting what could be a pivotal winner.
Overall, Milan has struggled to build momentum despite an abundance of creative talent. Addressing concentration issues at the back seems critical if Pioli can steer them back to the top four after falling off the pace. Convert more of the countless chances Milan’s attack generates and defensive lapses should not matter as much. But with Napoli setting a relentless pace so far, improved ruthlessness seems essential for Milan to push the leaders heading into the business end of the campaign.
