
- Fixture: Empoli vs Venezia (Serie A 2024/25)
- Date: Sunday, 20 April 2025
- Venue: Stadio Carlo Castellani – Computer Gross Arena, Empoli
Match Preview
Empoli and Venezia face off in a crucial relegation battle at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on April 20, 2025. Both sides are tied on 24 points, with Venezia just ahead of Empoli on goal difference (18th vs. 19th). With the Serie A season nearing its conclusion, this match could prove pivotal for both teams’ survival hopes.
Empoli’s recent form has been uninspiring. The Tuscan side has failed to score in their last four home games and has only one win in their previous 15 home league matches. Their most recent result, a 0-0 draw with Cagliari, highlighted their attacking struggles. Injuries have hit Empoli hard: Marco Silvestri, Ardian Ismajli, Youssef Maleh, Szymon Zurkowski, Christian Kouamé, and Pietro Pellegri are all out, while Faustino Anjorin remains doubtful. Coach Roberto D’Aversa has had to rely on less experienced players to fill the gaps, especially in attack and midfield.
Venezia, meanwhile, have also struggled for consistency, particularly away from home, where they have lost nine of their 16 matches. However, they have shown resilience, remaining unbeaten at half-time in their last 12 Serie A games and drawing three consecutive away fixtures at both half-time and full-time. Their latest result, a hard-fought 1-0 win over Monza, offers some hope. Venezia are missing Mirko Marić, Michael Svoboda, Filip Stankovic, and Alfred Duncan due to injuries, putting extra pressure on their squad depth and defensive organization.
Historically, these teams have been closely matched. Five of their last 18 meetings have ended 1-1, and both sides have won twice in their last eight encounters at Empoli’s ground. The reverse fixture this season also finished level, underlining how evenly balanced they are. With both teams averaging less than a goal per game (Venezia 0.78, Empoli 0.75), another low-scoring, tactical contest is likely.
With so much at stake and both teams desperate for points, expect a cautious and tense affair. Empoli will look to press high and use their home advantage, while Venezia’s compact shape and ability to frustrate opponents could make the difference. Set pieces and individual moments of quality may decide the outcome in this high-pressure clash.
Key Players
Empoli:
- Sebastiano Esposito: The young striker is expected to lead the line and will need to be clinical with any opportunities that come his way.
- Alberto Grassi: The captain’s leadership and ball-winning skills in midfield are vital for Empoli’s stability and transitions.
- Devis Vásquez: With Silvestri out, Vásquez’s goalkeeping could prove crucial in a tight contest.
Venezia:
- Gianluca Busio: The American midfielder’s energy, vision, and passing will be central to Venezia’s efforts to control the game and create chances.
- Jay Idzes: The captain and central defender is a key presence at the back, organizing the defense and contributing to set pieces.
- Ionuț Radu: The experienced goalkeeper will be relied upon to keep Empoli at bay, especially with injuries affecting the Venezia back line.
Prediction
With both teams struggling for goals and missing key players, a draw seems the most probable result. Expect a tactical and nervy affair, with both sides prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking risk. A 1-1 or 0-0 outcome is likely, leaving both clubs still fighting to secure their Serie A status.
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
---|---|---|
Empoli Win | 2/1 | Bet Now |
Draw | 21/10 | Bet Now |
Venezia Win | 5/2 | Bet Now |
Under 2.5 Goals | 8/15 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | 11/10 | Bet Now |
Correct Score 1-1 | 5/1 | Bet Now |
Odds are approximate and subject to change. Always check the latest prices before placing a bet.
This relegation battle promises tension and drama, but with both Empoli and Venezia struggling for goals and missing key players, expect a tactical chess match rather than a shootout.