Fiorentina vs Empoli
Serie A
Monday
23rd October 2023
Artemio Franchi
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Serie A gameweek 9 fixture between Fiorentina and Empoli.
Fiorentina vs Empoli: Preview
Fiorentina form analysis
Viola have shown signs of promise but lacked consistency in their recent Serie A matches. They started brightly by beating Atalanta 3-2 in a thriller, with goals from Bonaventura, Quarta and Kouame. A determined 0-2 away win at Udinese followed thanks to Quarta and Bonaventura strikes. However Fiorentina then stumbled in a 1-1 draw away at Frosinone, despite leading through Nico Gonzalez. They got back on track with an emphatic 3-0 home win over Cagliari, sparked by another Gonzalez goal. Most recently though, defensive issues resurfaced in a 1-3 loss away at Napoli, despite breaching the league leaders early on.
Overall, Fiorentina have shown they can trouble anyone on their day with coach Vincenzo Italiano implementing an entertaining style of play. But they have been prone to switching off defensively at times. Securing more consistent results will be key to challenging for Europe. With talents like Gonzalez, Jovic and Bonaventura though, Fiorentina have the quality in attack to beat any opponent. Tightening up at the back could make them a dangerous outfit this season.
Empoli form analysis
Empoli’s recent Serie A matches demonstrate a club still finding their feet after gaining promotion last season. They suffered a heavy 0-7 thrashing away at Roma in their first game, totally outclassed. A determined display followed but they narrowly lost 0-1 at home to Inter. Empoli returned to winning ways with a solid 1-0 home victory over Salernitana courtesy of Baldanzi’s goal. However, they were comfortably beaten next time out 0-3 away at Bologna. Most recently, Empoli earned a respectable goalless draw at home against Udinese.
Overall, Empoli have shown fighting spirit but also clear signs of their inexperience at this level. Heavy defeats to Roma and Bologna have highlighted defensive issues, conceding 10 goals in just 3 losses. But grinding out results like against Inter and Salernitana demonstrates their resilience and threat on the break. New coach Aurelio Andreazzol has potential to pull clear of relegation given his moments of promise so far.
