Roma are back with a bang
Empoli
Empoli have had a tough start to the season and sit in the relegation zone of Serie A after seven matches. Despite winning their opening match against Cagliari they’ve since failed to pick up a win in any of their following games. In fact, they’ve only picked up 2 points in the last six matches.
The league schedule hasn’t been forgiving either as they’ve already had to face the likes of Milan and Lazio. But even though they’ve not impressed, they’ve deserved better. If we cast our eyes back to their recent match with Parma, they were actually the better side with better possession starts and some decent chances.
But now they’ve got a tough match against a Roma side that have started to get into gear. On top of that they’ll be missing key players in Acquah, Antonelli and Pasqual.
Roma
Roma have had a miserable start to the season with losses against Milan and Bologna, alongside draws to Atalanta and Chievo. But now the tide finally seems to be turning with three straight wins under their belt and a goal difference of a whopping 12-1. Two of those wins were a tough match in the derby where they saw off bitter rivals Lazio, as well as a 5-0 home demolishing of Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League.
Coach Eusebio di Francesco can sit a little bit more comfortably now, after the vultures were out for him just a fortnight ago. Beating Empoli in their last fixture would be a great way to cap off a solid run of form before the international break.
The only negative for Roma is their injury list. They’re missing De Rossi, Pastore and Perotti which is probably a reason the odds are a bit higher than expected.
Match Tips
Two sides that have had a tough start to the season, but also two teams that have deserved better. Roma are serious favourites and that goes without question. Rather the question is, just how big favourites are they.
Well, there are many reasons why they’re such good favourites: quality and form just being two of them. One factor that is hard to quantify is just how important self-confidence and morale is in the team. In that respect they are at opposite ends of the spectrum.
