Empoli’s early season promise has faded, with their six-game unbeaten start to the Serie A campaign (W2, D4) now a distant memory. The Azzurri have secured just two league wins since and are currently winless in their last eight matches (D2, L6). As they begin this round just one point above the relegation zone, their prospects do not look good, particularly as they face AC Milan, a side they haven’t beaten at home since January 1986.
Despite their struggles, Empoli have shown flashes of competitiveness against strong opponents, taking the lead against both Juventus and Bologna in recent weeks before eventually succumbing to comebacks (D1, L1). However, they remain winless against teams starting the round in the top eight this season (D4, L7), including a 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture. Their dismal record against Milan is reflected in just one win from the last 16 head-to-head encounters (D5, L10).
AC Milan, meanwhile, were left frustrated after seeing a dramatic late equaliser deny them victory in the Milan derby against Inter last Sunday, forcing them to settle for a fourth draw in their last eight Serie A matches (W3, L1). Sérgio Conceição’s side remain hard to beat and restored confidence with a midweek Coppa Italia win over Roma, but inconsistency continues to hinder their pursuit of the European places.
Their recent away form will be a concern, having lost their last two away matches in all competitions. Milan now face the prospect of three consecutive defeats on the road for the first time since May 2015. However, their travelling supporters will be optimistic, given Milan’s defensive dominance over Empoli in recent seasons. The Rossoneri have kept four consecutive clean sheets against them in the league and another shutout here would equal their all-time record of five, last achieved against Pisa between 1988 and 1991.
Players to Watch:
- Mattia De Sciglio could pose a threat to Milan after scoring his first goal in three years last weekend against his parent club Juventus. The full-back made 133 appearances for Milan earlier in his career and may relish the chance to haunt them once again.
- João Félix scored on his Milan debut in midweek and will be looking to build on that performance. However, the Portuguese forward has not scored in consecutive games since November 2023, and will be eager to break that trend.
Hot Stat:
Eight of Milan’s last nine away matches have seen them receive the first yellow card, suggesting a tendency for early aggression on the road.
