Fiorentina are set to host Empoli in the Coppa Italia Round of 16 at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Wednesday, 4 December, with kick-off at 21:00. This fixture comes just days after the harrowing incident involving midfielder Edoardo Bove, who collapsed during the Serie A match against Inter Milan.
The match was subsequently abandoned, and Bove was rushed to Careggi Hospital in Florence. He has since regained consciousness and is reported to be in a stable condition.
Empoli’s head coach, Roberto D’Aversa, expressed relief at Bove’s recovery, stating, “We are happy to play because it means that Edoardo Bove is better.” He also acknowledged the emotional impact of the incident, noting, “Those images were devastating—for his parents, teammates, and the fans at the stadium. They were strong emotions.”
In terms of team selection, D’Aversa indicated that Empoli would field players who have had fewer opportunities in the league, aiming to provide valuable playing time and assess squad depth. Fiorentina, under coach Raffaele Palladino, are expected to continue their rotation policy, balancing commitments across Serie A and the UEFA Conference League.
The probable line-ups are as follows:
Fiorentina (4-2-3-1): Terracciano; Kayode, Pongračić, Ranieri, Biraghi; Mandragora, Adli; Ikoné, Beltrán, Sottil; Kouamé.
Empoli (3-4-2-1): Seghetti; Marianucci, Ismajli, Tosto; Sambia, Henderson, Maleh, Cacace; Esposito, Colombo; Ekong.
This Tuscan derby holds significant importance for both clubs, not only as a pathway to potential silverware but also as a means to uplift spirits following recent events.
