The Clash of the Blues: Empoli vs Napoli Showdown

• Key takeaway one: Napoli enters the match with a stronger previous season record, aiming to leverage their goal-scoring prowess.
• Key takeaway two: Empoli, with a notable gap in goals scored versus goals allowed, focuses on defensive solidity and goalkeeping performance.
• Key takeaway three: Both teams have key players, Elia Caprile for Empoli and Alex Meret for Napoli, set to make significant impacts as goaltenders.

Empoli’s Uphill Battle

The Blues from Empoli are gearing up for what appears to be an uphill battle as they travel to Stadio Carlo Castellani to face off against Napoli. Last season, Empoli ended with a less than stellar performance, ranking 18th for expected goals (xG) at 29.9 and seeing their xGA (expected goals against) hovering at 44.9. The team allowed 48 goals, translating to 1.50 goals per 90 minutes, and managed to secure 7 shutouts, accounting for a 21.9% shutout rate. With a goal difference of -23 and struggling to find the back of the net consistently, Empoli's strategy will heavily rely on their defense and the prowess of goaltender Elia Caprile, who boasts a save percentage of 73.2.

Napoli’s Quest for Dominance

On the other side, Napoli presents a formidable challenge, coming off a season where they averaged 1.5 points per match and were ranked 7th in terms of goals conceded, with a differential of +10. Their defensive record, complemented by 69 yellow cards and 5 red cards, illustrates a team that's not afraid to play hard. Goalkeeper Alex Meret, with a save percentage of 65.2 and a goals-against average of 1.06, will be crucial in maintaining Napoli’s defensive solidity. Offensively, Napoli shines, having notched 50 goals last season, with their expected goals (xG) sitting comfortably at 52.9. Matteo Politano, known for his ability to wreak havoc on the pitch, will be a key player for Napoli, aiming to add to his tally of 61 career goals.

Players to Watch

Empoli will lean on Francesco Caputo, hoping his knack for finding the net continues to shine through. With 186 career goals and a rate of 0.44 goals per 90 minutes, Caputo's experience and scoring ability could prove pivotal for Empoli.

Napoli's Matteo Politano, with 61 goals and an average of 0.26 goals per 90 minutes over his career, alongside 40 assists, will be instrumental in Napoli's offensive strategy. His ability to create chances and score will be vital for Napoli's success.

The Verdict

As both teams prepare for their upcoming clash, the spotlight will be on Napoli’s offensive tactics against Empoli’s defensive strategies. With key players on both sides ready to make an impact, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Will Empoli manage to hold off Napoli’s attack, or will Napoli's offensive firepower prove too much for Empoli’s defense? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Serie A fans are in for a treat.

(First reported by: Sports Analysis, 2023)