Udinese vs. Empoli Prediction and Betting Tips

The Serie A clash between Udinese and Empoli on February 16, 2025, promises to be an intriguing encounter. With Udinese aiming to solidify their position in the top half of the table and Empoli desperately fighting to escape the relegation zone, this match carries significant weight for both teams. In this article, we’ll delve into the latest team news, analyze their recent form, explore head-to-head statistics, and provide expert betting tips to help you make informed decisions.

Match Overview

Date and Time: February 16, 2025, at 15:00 (CET)
Venue: Bluenergy Stadium, Udine, Italy
Competition: Serie A, Matchday 25

Udinese, currently 10th in the league with 30 points, will host 17th-placed Empoli, who are just one point above the relegation zone. Both teams are coming off contrasting runs of form, making this a must-watch fixture for Serie A fans.

Team News and Lineups

Udinese

Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, remains sidelined with a wrist injury, while defender Isaak Touré is also unavailable due to a knee issue. Striker Keinan Davis is a doubt with a calf problem, but key players like Lorenzo Lucca and Florian Thauvin are expected to lead the attack.

Predicted Udinese XI (4-2-3-1):
Sava; Kristensen, Bijol, Solet, Kamara; Lovric, Karlstrom; Atta, Thauvin, Ekkelenkamp; Lucca

Empoli

Empoli’s injury crisis continues to plague their campaign. Defender Luca Marianucci is suspended, while key players like Ola Solbakken, Pietro Pellegri, and Nicolas Haas are ruled out due to injuries. Midfielder Youssef Maleh returns from suspension, but the team’s depth remains a concern.

Predicted Empoli XI (3-4-2-1):
Vasquez; De Sciglio, Goglichidze, Pezzella; Gyasi, Henderson, Grassi, Maleh; Esposito, Cacace; Colombo

Recent Form and Performance

Udinese

Udinese have shown resilience in recent weeks, going unbeaten in their last two matches. Their 1-1 draw against league leaders Napoli highlighted their ability to compete with top-tier opposition. However, their home form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last seven home games.

• Last 5 Matches: D, W, L, D, D
• Goals Scored: 11 in the last 10 games (1.1 per match)
• Goals Conceded: 17 in the last 10 games (1.7 per match)

Empoli

Empoli’s struggles continue, as they are winless in their last nine league matches. Their recent 2-0 loss to AC Milan further dented their confidence, and their away form has been equally disappointing, with just one win in their last five away games.

• Last 5 Matches: L, L, D, L, W
• Goals Scored: 12 in the last 10 games (1.2 per match)
• Goals Conceded: 21 in the last 10 games (2.1 per match)

Head-to-Head Statistics

Udinese have historically had the upper hand in this fixture, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters against Empoli. The last three meetings between the two sides ended in draws, including a 1-1 stalemate in November 2024.

Last 5 H2H Results:

• Udinese 1-1 Empoli (Nov 2024)
• Empoli 1-1 Udinese (May 2024)
• Empoli 0-0 Udinese (Oct 2023)
• Empoli 0-1 Udinese (Mar 2023)
• Udinese 1-1 Empoli (Jan 2023)

Key Players to Watch

Udinese

• Lorenzo Lucca: The Italian forward has been in fine form, scoring nine goals this season. His physical presence and aerial ability make him a constant threat in the box.
• Florian Thauvin: The experienced winger has contributed five goals and three assists this season, providing creativity and flair on the flanks.

Empoli

• Sebastiano Esposito: The young striker has scored seven of his eight league goals away from home, making him Empoli’s most dangerous attacking asset.
• Elia Caprile: The goalkeeper will need to be at his best to keep Udinese’s attack at bay, especially given Empoli’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Betting Tips and Odds

Best Betting Tips

1. Udinese to Win: Given their superior form and home advantage, Udinese are the favorites to secure all three points. The odds for a home win are 1.84 at 1win.
2. Over 2.5 Goals: Both teams have been involved in high-scoring games recently, making this a viable option. The odds for over 2.5 goals are 1.93.
3. Both Teams to Score – Yes: Despite Empoli’s struggles, they have scored in five of their last six matches. The odds for both teams to score are 2.00.

Best Odds

• Udinese Win: 1.84 (1win)
• Draw: 3.77 (1win)
• Empoli Win: 4.82 (1win)
• Over 2.5 Goals: 1.93 (Betfair)
• Both Teams to Score – Yes: 2.00 (Paripesa)

Expert Prediction

Udinese’s recent form and home advantage make them the clear favorites for this encounter. Empoli’s injury crisis and poor away record further tilt the scales in Udinese’s favor. While Empoli may put up a fight, Udinese are expected to secure a narrow victory.

Final Score Prediction: Udinese 2-1 Empoli

Conclusion

The Udinese vs. Empoli clash is set to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams. Udinese’s superior form and home advantage make them the favorites, but Empoli’s desperation to escape the relegation zone could lead to an intense battle. Whether you’re a fan or a bettor, this match promises plenty of excitement and opportunities.

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