Parma vs Empoli Predictions

Two of the newly promoted sides in Serie A clash on Sunday, as both Parma and Empoli chase all three points. The pair are hoping for another victory, although they’re in very different positions. Just two points separates these two, so everything could change over the weekend, but right now the mood around each club feels very different. Will that continue to be the case this weekend, or can Empoli launch a climb up the table by taking three points in this away trip?

Parma are sitting in 12th after Serie A’s midweek action, but the mood around the club is quite high. They were midtable after a win last weekend, and it seems like they’re going to be clear of any danger this season. It seems like the famous club are creating new memories in the top flight, especially given the manner of their victory at Inter Milan. Their hopes of repeating that at Napoli went pear-shaped, as they were beaten 3-0 on Wednesday. However, with another difficult trip out of the way, things are looking good for Parma.

Empoli seemed to miss an opportunity in midweek, as the drew 1-1 with an underperforming AC Milan side. That could have been a famous win for the Azzurri, but they’ll be happy with the point. That draw kept them out of the drop zone, but they remain in 17th place, which is obviously a concern for a newcomer. Empoli were shambolic at times during their Serie A campaign in 2016/17, which saw them drop out of the top flight. Their return came with a reinvented side, but so far that’s not translating into points.

That’s left these two promoted sides feeling very differently about their opening fixtures. Parma will host this clash with an air of confidence, while things are heading towards desperation for Empoli. With Parma winning two of their last three, they’re deservedly favourites here. They’ve also put in strong home displays, pushing Juventus and making a strong start against Udinese.

Meanwhile, Empoli have lost four of their last five away trips in Serie A, going down to Genoa and Sassuolo already this season. They only managed to avoid defeat at basement side Chievo. Given that Parma have won eight of 11 home meetings with Empoli, we think a home win is the best choice in this clash.