Empoli vs Monza Prediction & Betting Tips (1 October)

Empoli and Monza are set to clash on September 30th in a pivotal Serie B fixture that could shape the early contours of the promotion race. Empoli, recently relegated from Serie A, have shown flashes of resilience, particularly at home, where they’ve secured wins against Parma and Monza in their final top-flight outings. Under the guidance of Paolo Zanetti, the Tuscan side is recalibrating its squad with a blend of youth and experience, and the midfield duo of Jacopo Fazzini and Filippo Ranocchia has been instrumental in dictating tempo. Their recent 1-1 draw against Reggiana in the Coppa Italia suggests a team still ironing out tactical wrinkles but capable of grinding out results.

Monza, meanwhile, are navigating a transitional phase following their own relegation and managerial reshuffle. Raffaele Palladino remains at the helm, but the squad has undergone notable changes, with key departures and the integration of younger talent. Their pre-season friendly against Inter, which ended in a 2-2 draw, hinted at attacking promise, yet defensive frailties persist—evident in their 0-4 collapse against Atalanta and a 1-3 home defeat to Empoli last May. The attacking burden now falls heavily on Andrea Colpani and Dany Mota, both of whom have shown flashes but lack consistent support from midfield.

Tactically, Empoli are expected to press high and exploit Monza’s vulnerability on the flanks. Zanetti’s side has been effective in transitions, often converting turnovers into quick strikes. Monza, on the other hand, will likely rely on set-pieces and counterattacks, hoping to capitalize on Empoli’s occasional lapses in defensive shape. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Empoli’s pressing game clashing against Monza’s more measured build-up. Expect a physical contest, with both teams eager to assert dominance early, especially given their recent head-to-head history favoring Empoli.

Given current form and tactical setups, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of Empoli feels like a calculated prediction. The hosts have demonstrated greater cohesion and goal-scoring consistency, particularly at the Carlo Castellani. Monza’s ability to find the net away from home remains intact, but their defensive record—conceding over two goals per game on average—makes them vulnerable. Empoli’s sharper edge in midfield and home advantage should tilt the balance, with Monza likely to grab a consolation goal but fall short of a comeback.