Bologna will be aiming to secure their first victory of the Serie A season when they host Empoli at Stadio Dall’Ara on Saturday. The home side have struggled to find their form under new manager Vincenzo Italiano, while Empoli enter the match buoyed by a stunning away win against Roma last weekend.
After a disappointing draw in their season opener and a 3-0 defeat to Napoli, Bologna are under pressure to get their campaign on track. The Rossoblu have won just one of their last seven matches dating back to last season, a concerning trend as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League debut.
Empoli, on the other hand, have made a promising start under new coach Roberto D’Aversa. They followed up an opening day draw against Monza with an impressive 2-1 victory at Roma’s Stadio Olimpico. The Azzurri will be looking to continue their unbeaten run and potentially stay undefeated through their first three Serie A matches for only the second time in club history.
Team News
Bologna will be without several key players due to injury, including summer signing Nicolo Cambiaghi and midfielder Lewis Ferguson. Captain Riccardo Orsolini is expected to lead the attack, having scored five goals against Empoli in previous meetings.
Empoli are also dealing with some absences but welcome back Alberto Grassi from suspension. New signings Mattia De Sciglio and Tino Anjorin are unlikely to start after joining the club this week.
This match presents an opportunity for Bologna to assert themselves at home and build momentum before the international break. However, Empoli’s recent form suggests they will provide stiff competition. With both teams eager for points, an entertaining contest could be in store at the Dall’Ara.
Expected Starting XIs
Bologna: Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Aebischer; Orsolini, Fabbian, Odgaard; Castro
Empoli: Vasquez; Marianucci, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Henderson, Haas, Pezzella; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo
