Serie A leaders Napoli face a tricky test on Sunday as they travel to Stadio Carlo Castellani to take on a stubborn Empoli side. The lunchtime clash pits Antonio Conte’s high-flying Partenopei against Roberto D’Aversa’s well-organized Azzurri in what promises to be an intriguing tactical battle.
Napoli enter the match in imperious form, having won six of their last seven matches across all competitions. Their 3-1 victory over Como before the international break extended their unbeaten run to six games and kept them two points clear of reigning champions Inter Milan at the Serie A summit.
Conte has quickly transformed Napoli into a ruthless winning machine since taking charge in the summer. The former Inter and Chelsea boss has expertly integrated big-money signings like Romelu Lukaku, David Neres and Scott McTominay into an already talented squad. The Partenopei now boast 11 different goalscorers this season – a tally only bettered by Bayern Munich and Brighton across Europe’s top five leagues.
However, Napoli face a stern examination of their title credentials against an Empoli side who have proven extremely difficult to break down at home this season. The Tuscans are yet to concede a goal in three Serie A matches at the Castellani, drawing 0-0 with Monza, Juventus and Fiorentina. Another clean sheet on Sunday would see them become the first team in Serie A history to record four consecutive goalless home draws to start a season.
D’Aversa’s men saw their 10-game unbeaten run in all competitions ended by a narrow 2-1 defeat at Lazio last time out. But they remain in a solid 9th place and will fancy their chances of frustrating the league leaders on home turf. Empoli have an excellent recent record against Napoli, winning five of the last seven Serie A meetings between the sides including a league double last season.
The outcome of this match could hinge on whether Empoli’s watertight defense can withstand Napoli’s free-scoring attack. The hosts have conceded just twice in their last five home games stretching back to last season. Centre-back pairing Ardian Ismajli and Mattia Viti will need to be at their very best to keep Lukaku and co. at bay.
Napoli have netted 18 goals in just 7 Serie A games this term, with their fluid attacking play causing problems for every defense they’ve faced. The movement and interplay between Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia and Politano/Neres will test Empoli’s defensive organization to the limit.
Team News
Napoli suffered a blow during the international break with key midfielder Stanislav Lobotka picking up an injury on Slovakia duty. Billy Gilmour is likely to deputize in central midfield alongside Frank Anguissa and the in-form Scott McTominay. The Scottish international has been directly involved in a goal in each of his last three appearances for the Partenopei.
Left-back Mathias Olivera is also doubtful after sustaining a knock with Uruguay, meaning Leonardo Spinazzola could be handed a start. Elia Caprile will continue in goal with first-choice keeper Alex Meret still sidelined.
Up front, Romelu Lukaku will lead the line after focusing on his fitness during the break. The Belgian striker has averaged a goal involvement every 45 minutes in Serie A so far – the second best rate in Europe’s top five leagues behind only teammate David Neres (one every 23 minutes). Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is certain to start on the left wing, with either Matteo Politano or Neres completing the front three.
Empoli remain without long-term absentee Saba Sazonov, while Samuele Perisan and Tyronne Ebuehi are also unavailable. However, midfielder Szymon Zurkowski could return to the bench after recovering from a calf problem. On-loan AC Milan goalkeeper Devis Vasquez will continue between the sticks having recorded the highest save percentage (82%) in Serie A this season.
Expected Starting XIs
Empoli: Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Grassi, Anjorin, Pezzella; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo
Napoli: Caprile; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Gilmour, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia
Match Prediction
While Napoli are in scintillating form, they may find it difficult to break down a disciplined and compact Empoli side. The hosts have proven extremely tough to beat at the Castellani and will look to frustrate the league leaders. However, the sheer quality in Napoli’s ranks should eventually tell. Conte’s men may need to be patient, but they should have enough firepower to claim a narrow victory and maintain their position at the Serie A summit.
Prediction: Empoli 0-1 Napoli