Venezia vs Empoli Prediction, Match Preview & Betting Tips, January 4, 2025
Venezia faces Empoli on January 4, 2025, at Stadio Pierluigi Penzo in Italy, with kick-off at 15:00. Venezia, new arrivals from Serie B, are confronting tough times in Serie A. Sitting in 19th place with just 13 points, they urgently need to turn things around. Meanwhile, Empoli is more comfortably placed 12th with 19 points, fighting to keep their spot in Italy’s top-flight league. This game sees two teams in differing forms: Venezia recently lost 1-0 to Naples, highlighting their offensive struggles. Empoli also suffered three straight losses, the latest a 2-1 against Genoa. With both sides struggling with injuries, key players may miss out, adding to tactical challenges. Their past encounters have been thrilling, with their last match ending 1-1. Both teams are determined to improve their luck, making this a promising high-energy clash.
Venezia vs Empoli Prediction & Betting Tip
- Prediction: Over 2.5 goals
- Recommended Bet: Over 2.5 goals (2.27 odds)
- Important Factors: Defensive weaknesses in both teams could allow for many scoring chances. Given their recently exposed offensive strategies, a high-scoring game seems likely.
| Venezia vs Empoli Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Recommended Bet | Odds |
| Over 2.5 goals | 2.27 |
Both teams have shaky defenses, suggesting an open game with plenty of goals could be on the cards. Hence, betting on Over 2.5 goals seems a smart move.
Venezia vs Empoli Odds
The odds for Over 2.5 goals sit at 2.27, expecting an open, dynamic match in terms of scoring. Venezia’s lower league position and inconsistent form mean they have higher odds. But despite Empoli’s struggles, their better position doesn’t make them clear favorites. Bettors might also look at players to score, given key attackers could heavily influence the match.
| Venezia vs Empoli Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Over 2.5 goals | 2.27 |
These odds highlight the expectation of an action-packed match, with plenty of attacking exchanges set to unfold.
Venezia Team Analysis
Venezia Recent Performance
Venezia’s recent run shows a troubled season, with only 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last five games. A 0-0 draw with Fiorentina did show some defensive grit against stronger opponents. Yet, their defense remains a concern, having let in 9 goals in these matches. Joel Pohjanpalo is their star forward, having netted 4 goals, providing a crucial attacking presence. However, inconsistency is a major issue, with their Serie A future uncertain. Not securing clean sheets recently adds to their defensive worries. They showed resilience in a home draw against Torino, but there’s a pressing need for improvement.
| Recent Matches for Venezia | Result |
|---|---|
| Napoli vs Venezia | 1-0 |
| Venezia vs Fiorentina | 1-1 |
| Venezia vs Torino | 0-0 |
| Spezia vs Venezia | 2-1 |
| Venezia vs Bari | 2-2 |
Venezia Key Players
Joel Pohjanpalo is Venezia’s standout in attack, his 4 goals critical to their offensive force. Coach Eusebio Di Francesco will look to refine his team’s attacking strategies, aiming to consistently feed Pohjanpalo. In midfield, Franco Carboni is a creative playmaker, while goalie Filip Stankovic is vital in stopping shots amidst defensive lapses. Gaetano Oristanio can spark counter-attacks, with John Yeboah’s agility adding further danger in attack—both could be crucial in this tie.
Venezia Suspensions & Injuries
Venezia is battling injury problems with Richie Sagrado, Michael Svoboda, Alfred Duncan, Issa Doumbia, and Antonio Raimondo all uncertain for this game.
| Venezia Suspensions & Injuries | Status |
|---|---|
| Richie Sagrado | Duration unknown |
| Michael Svoboda | Duration unknown |
| Alfred Duncan | Duration unknown |
| Issa Doumbia | Duration unknown |
| Antonio Raimondo | Duration unknown |
These injuries force tactical changes and likely squad rotation. Young talents may need to step up, demanding intelligent management of player workloads and strategic flexibility.
Venezia Tactics and Formation
Venezia might deploy a lineup with three at the back to bolster defense. Their game plan likely centers on counter-attacks, targeting Empoli’s defensive weaknesses. Using wide areas with players like Carboni could stretch Empoli’s backline. Di Francesco might focus on holding possession to disrupt Empoli’s rhythm. By regaining and transitioning quickly, Venezia aims to exploit these moments for advantage.
Empoli Team Analysis
Empoli Recent Performance
Empoli’s recent form shows inconsistencies, with 2 wins and 3 losses. A 4-2 win over Salernitana acknowledged their offensive power, but they have also leaked 10 goals in the last six games, highlighting defensive issues. Sebastiano Esposito has been key, scoring 6 goals as their leading forward. Their form varies, with impressive attacking but also defensive lapses. Wins, like against Cagliari, show potential on the road, yet strategic improvements are necessary.
| Recent Matches for Empoli | Result |
|---|---|
| Empoli vs Salernitana | 4-2 |
| Empoli vs Genoa | 1-2 |
| Cagliari vs Empoli | 1-3 |
| Empoli vs Bologna | 1-3 |
| Torino vs Empoli | 1-0 |
Empoli Key Players
Leading Empoli’s attack, Sebastiano Esposito has netted 6 goals, anchoring their offense. Veteran Devis Vásquez in goal boosts their defensive confidence. Coach Roberto D’Aversa will strengthen tactical discipline, with midfield support from Alberto Grassi. Tino Anjorin’s adaptability helps bridge defense and attack, while striker Lorenzo Colombo is crucial during offensive moves. Ardian Ismajli on defense is key, and flexible offensive strategies may arise based on game flow.
Empoli Suspensions & Injuries
Empoli faces injury challenges, potentially affecting their strategy. Saba Sazonov, Nicolas Haas, Mattia Viti, Pietro Pellegri, Ola Solbakken, Federico Brancolini, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Szymon Zurkowski could miss out.
| Empoli Suspensions & Injuries | Status |
|---|---|
| Saba Sazonov | Duration unknown |
| Nicolas Haas | Duration unknown |
| Mattia Viti | Duration unknown |
| Pietro Pellegri | Duration unknown |
| Ola Solbakken | Duration unknown |
| Federico Brancolini | Duration unknown |
| Tyronne Ebuehi | Duration unknown |
| Szymon Zurkowski | Duration unknown |
These injuries suggest lineup changes and rotational strategies. Involving young players might sustain balance and add energy to the team.
Empoli Tactics and Formation
Empoli might opt for a 4-5-1 formation, balancing attack and defense. D’Aversa could leverage full-backs like Giuseppe Pezzella for wider plays. Their tactics focus on controlling the pitch, with midfielders like Esposito supporting strikers. Quick defense transitions to stop counters are crucial, potentially capitalizing on Venezia’s central defense.
Venezia vs Empoli Head-to-Head Statistics
Their past matchups have been even. In their last five head-to-head games, Venezia won twice, Empoli once, and drew twice. The latest match ended in a 1-1 draw, underscoring their competitive nature.
| Head-to-Head Encounters | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Venezia vs Empoli | 1-1 |
| Empoli vs Venezia | 2-3 |
| Venezia vs Empoli | 0-0 |
| Empoli vs Venezia | 2-0 |
| Venezia vs Empoli | 3-2 |
This historical rivalry enhances the game’s anticipation. Whether a clear victor emerges or it’s another close contest, this backdrop could shape strategies, based on past trends influencing play.
Venue and Weather
Stadio Pierluigi Penzo sets the stage for this exciting match, accommodating 12,048 spectators in a unique Venetian setting. Early January in Venice brings cold temperatures between 1°C and 7°C, requiring players and staff to prepare well. Rain or cloudy skies could affect the pitch, influencing ball control strategies. Windy conditions might complicate long passes, needing tactical flexibility to adapt. The cold may impact match speed and player endurance, with teams managing such challenges effectively gaining potential advantages.
