Empoli vs Modena on January 31
On January 31, 2026, Serie B rivals Empoli and Modena will face off in a high-stakes clash at the Stadio Carlo Castellani. The match promises to be a critical encounter as both teams fight for key points in their ongoing campaigns. Empoli, aiming for a return to Serie A, will be looking to assert their dominance, while Modena will be pushing for a top-half finish. The game could have a significant impact on both sides’ aspirations as the Serie B season heads towards its decisive stages. The weather conditions, with light rain expected, may influence the flow of play, potentially making the pitch slower and affecting ball control.
Empoli: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Empoli's recent form has been solid, with four wins in their last five games, demonstrating their strong push towards the upper echelons of Serie B. The team primarily operates with a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions from defense to attack. Their possession-based style often sees them dominate the ball, boasting an average possession rate of 57% in recent matches. The attack is heavily reliant on the wings, with their wingers creating width and stretching opposition defenses. The combination of technical passing and rapid off-the-ball movement makes them dangerous on the counter-attack.
Key players include striker Andrea La Mantia, whose physical presence and aerial ability make him a constant threat in the box. Central midfielder Samuele Ricci is the engine of the team, contributing both defensively and offensively with his range of passing and ability to break up play. However, Empoli will be without key defender Filippo Bandinelli due to suspension, which could leave a gap in their defensive structure. This absence may lead to adjustments in how they approach set-pieces and defensive transitions.
Modena: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Modena has been somewhat inconsistent lately, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five matches. Their formation typically mirrors Empoli’s, operating in a 4-3-3 setup, but with a slightly more counter-attacking approach. They rely on quick transitions, looking to exploit space behind high-pressing teams like Empoli. Modena’s midfield, while less dominant in possession, is compact and disciplined, focusing on breaking down opposition play and creating overloads on the wings.
Their top performer in recent matches has been forward Davide Diaw, whose pace and finishing ability are pivotal in converting counter-attacks into goals. Modena's defense, led by the experienced central defender Luca Rizzo, will need to be alert to Empoli's wing play, especially with their reliance on wide balls and crosses into the box. Injuries to midfielder Marco Sissoko and defender Antonio Di Gennaro will likely force Modena to adjust their midfield and defensive shape, potentially weakening their ability to press high up the pitch.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last five encounters, Empoli has had the upper hand, winning three times, while Modena has won twice. These games have typically been tight, with Empoli edging the contests in terms of possession and overall control. Modena has managed to disrupt Empoli’s rhythm in previous encounters, often relying on set-pieces and quick breaks to catch the opposition off guard. One key trend in these matchups has been Empoli’s ability to dominate possession but struggle to break down Modena’s disciplined defensive block.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The key battle in this match will undoubtedly be in the midfield, where Empoli’s Samuele Ricci will look to control the tempo against Modena’s defensive midfielders, particularly Matteo Pessina, who will be tasked with breaking up attacks and distributing the ball. Ricci’s ability to dictate play will be crucial to how Empoli transitions from defense to attack.
Another crucial duel will take place on the wings, where Empoli’s wingers will challenge Modena’s full-backs. Modena’s defensive frailties on the flanks have been exposed in previous games, and Empoli will look to exploit this by stretching the field and delivering crosses into the box for La Mantia. Modena’s ability to contain Empoli’s wingers and prevent crosses from being whipped into dangerous areas could go a long way in deciding the outcome.
Match Scenario and Prediction
The match is likely to unfold with Empoli controlling possession and looking to break down Modena’s defense through quick, intricate passing. Modena will likely sit deep and attempt to hit Empoli on the counter, using their pace in attack to exploit any gaps left by Empoli’s high defensive line. With both teams having a strong attacking presence, this could be a high-intensity encounter with plenty of chances on both sides. Expect a tightly contested match, but Empoli’s superior squad depth and home advantage should give them the edge.
Prediction: Empoli 2-1 Modena. Expect a close game, but Empoli’s ability to control possession and create wide overloads will likely be the deciding factor. Look for Empoli to win by a narrow margin, with both teams likely to score. Key metrics to watch: xG, possession in the final third, and crosses delivered into the box.
Final Thoughts
This match will ultimately hinge on how well Modena can stifle Empoli’s wing play and disrupt their passing rhythm in midfield. If Empoli can dominate the ball and create width, they will likely come out on top. However, Modena’s counter-attacking style and defensive resilience could make them a formidable opponent, especially if Empoli leaves spaces in behind. The outcome of this match will provide a clear answer to whether Empoli can continue their charge for promotion, or if Modena can continue to upset the top sides in Serie B.
