Lazio vs Empoli FC – 08/01/2023
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Lazio’s dreams of a top-four finish took a major hit in midweek, as they allowed Lecce to come from behind to win 2-1. The Biancocelesti are in poor form with back-to-back Serie A defeats ahead of matchday No 17 against Empoli.
Empoli are 13th in the Serie A standings, as they make the trip to Rome to play Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico. The Azzurri are unbeaten in back-to-back Serie A games. Empoli defeated Cremonese 2-0 and drew 1-1 with Udinese in midweek.
Lazio took nine points from the last six games in the Serie A season. Coach Maurizio Sarri watch the Biancocelesti score just six goals in the last six games, while the defence allowed eight goals to opponents.
The Stadio Olimpico has been a safe space for Lazio this season. Sixteen of their 30 points have come at home and Lazio are unbeaten in four of their last six matches in Rome. The Biancocelesti have outscored opponents at home 14-7.
Empoli took a mere seven points from the last six games in the league. Yes, they are unbeaten in three of their last four games in Serie A, but Empoli have struggled to collect max points from matches. Empoli were outscored 9-4 across the last six games.
Lazio are unbeaten in 11 straight games against Empoli. Five of the six games between these teams ended as wins for the Biancocelesti.
Lazio scored at least two goals in nine of their last 11 home matches versus Empoli in all competitions. Meanwhile, there were under 2.5 goals scored in Empoli’s last five Serie A games.
Empoli coach Paolo Zanetti will be without Daniel Akpa due to a red-card suspension. Forward Mattia Destro has a calf injury and is a major doubt.
Sarri doesn’t have any major injury issues going into the game. Centre-back Mario Gila is nursing a foot injury and is a doubt to play. In addition, right-winger Luka Romero is ruled out by FIFA through suspension.
Striker Ciro Immobile has seven goals this season. He is third in the league in goals scored. Immobile has bagged 26% of Lazio’s goals in Serie A. The striker scored against Lecce in midweek despite Lazio losing 2-1.
Lazio should get back to winning ways against Empoli at the Stadio Olimpico. The Biancocelesti play well at home and are in good form against Empoli. Lazio should post a 2-0 win, with Immobile potentially scoring during the game.
