Fiorentina and Empoli Clash in Crucial Derby dell’Arno Showdown

Firenze, Italy – Fiorentina will host Empoli at Stadio Artemio Franchi on Sunday, April 27, 2025, in a crucial Serie A clash as both teams vie for different goals in the league. The match is scheduled to kick off at 2 PM local time.

Fiorentina is aiming for a top-six finish to secure European qualification, while Empoli is battling to avoid relegation. The Viola are coming off a 2-1 victory against Cagliari, where they showcased a strong comeback despite missing their top scorer, Moise Kean, who is absent for personal reasons.

Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino‘s squad has been performing well, gathering 11 points from their last five matches to lift themselves up the standings. As they prepare for their upcoming Conference League semi-final against Real Betis, Palladino faces the challenge of balancing squad rotation against the urgency of claiming full points against local rivals.

Empoli comes into this derby with a low morale, having recently exited the Coppa Italia in a 5-1 defeat to Bologna. Coach Roberto D'Aversa is dealing with multiple injuries affecting key players, making the situation precarious for the Azzurri, who find themselves 19th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone.

For Fiorentina, the starting lineup may include players like David De Gea, Lukáš Pongracic, and Albert Gudmundsson. In contrast, Empoli might field goalkeeper Wladimiro Vazquez, along with a defense led by Goglichidze and Marianucci.

Historically, Fiorentina has struggled against Empoli recently, failing to win any of their last six encounters. This trend adds an extra layer of tension to the derby, which typically draws fervent support from both fanbases.

Despite the pressure, Fiorentina is the favorite to win due to their stronger form and the absence of critical players on the side of Empoli. The Viola’s attack boasts a higher goals-per-game ratio compared to Empoli, who are still seeking their first win since December.

As both teams enter this knockout-style match, the stakes could not be higher, with Fiorentina looking to solidify their European ambitions while Empoli aims to claw their way to safety in the league. Fans on both sides will surely be eager to see who emerges victorious in this high-stakes local rivalry.