Empoli – Padova

Empoli host Padova in what promises to be a tightly contested clash near the top of the table, with the home side sitting 12th on six points from five games – two wins and three defeats, scoring four and conceding six – while Padova sit just above them in 11th with seven points, having recorded two wins, a draw and two losses and a 5‑6 goal difference. The narrow one‑point gap and similar goal records suggest a battle for the crucial fifth‑place spot, especially as both teams will be eager to turn their modest returns into a run of points. Historically the two sides have been evenly matched, and with Padova holding a slight edge in the standings, Empoli will need to capitalize on home advantage to close the gap. A positive result could see Empoli climb out of the relegation‑watch zone, whereas Padova will be looking to extend their modest lead and keep pressure on the teams above.