Empoli - AS Roma predictions and free betting tips [26/05/2024]

On Sunday, 26 May, as part of the 38th round of the Italian Serie A, Empoli will host Roma. The Tuscans need to take maximum points to retain their top-flight status, while the visitors are in sixth place and, under certain scenarios, could still qualify for the Champions League.

Stadium

The match will take place in Empoli at the Carlo Castellani Stadium.

Empoli

Empoli currently occupy 18th place in the Serie A standings, trailing Frosinone by 2 points and Udinese by 1. Tonight, their direct competitors in the relegation battle face off, and a win will secure the Tuscans' place in the elite division. The team surprised everyone at the end of April by defeating Napoli 1-0 at home. However, since then, the white and blues have slowed down, going four matches without a win (2 draws and 2 losses).

After losing to Lazio (2-0), Empoli drew 1-1 with Udinese last weekend. M'Baye Niang put the home side ahead from the penalty spot before Lazar Samardzic equalised. Overall, the Tuscans may pay for scoring the fewest goals in Serie A this season (27) – moreover, only Cadiz and Clermont have worse scoring records in Europe's top-5 leagues. Davide Nicola's team is third from the bottom for home points (17 in 18 matches, 13 goals scored, 22 conceded). 

Roma

In 6th place in the Serie A standings, 3 points behind Atalanta, Roma are guaranteed to finish in their current position. However, if the Bergamaschi finish 5th, the Giallorossi will qualify for the Champions League. Conversely, if La Dea finishes in the top-4, the Wolves will have to settle for the Europa League. Since Daniele De Rossi took the helm, the yellow and reds have achieved some good results, but have slowed down in recent weeks.

Having gone three rounds without a win (2 draws and 1 loss), Roma barely beat Genoa last weekend (1-0) thanks to a late goal by Lukaku. It’s worth noting that Roma have not performed well on the road, earning only 23 points in 18 away matches (eighth in the division, 26 goals scored, 25 conceded). 

Head-to-head

Having thrashed Empoli 7-0 in September and not losing at Carlo Castellani since 2007, Roma are looking to extend their dominance over the Tuscans this evening.

Prediction for Empoli vs Roma

Empoli are in dire need of three points, as a victory will ensure their stay in the top flight. Roma no longer have the motivation for the league, so De Rossi will likely give playing time to the reserves. The support of the home crowd should give the Tuscans extra strength, so I am betting on an underdog victory with a 0 handicap.

Total Prediction

Despite the motivation, it is hard to imagine that Empoli – the worst team in Serie A for goals – will engage in a high-scoring shootout this evening. I am betting on a total under 3 goals.

Corners Prediction

Empoli, motivated by the relegation battle, will try to take the initiative from the start. I am betting on an individual total over 4.5 corners for the Tuscans.

Yellow Cards Prediction

Empoli will not hold back in duels, as their top-flight status is at stake. I am betting on the Tuscans winning in yellow cards.

Score Prediction

I am betting on a 1-0 victory for Empoli.