THE FOOTBALL DESK

News & analysis

The matches, the turning points and the bigger picture.

Showing articles tagged 9th position

Latest coverage

2 articles loaded
Serie A
EMEmpoli
vsMatch coverage
ASAS Roma
EDITORIALMar 9, 2025

"Empoli vs AS Roma: A Battle for Survival and Glory"

Empoli will face AS Roma on March 9, 2025, at the Stadio Carlo Castellani in a crucial Serie A match. Empoli is in 18th place with 22 points, desperately needing points to avoid relegation, while Roma sits 9th with 43 points, aiming for European qualification. Both teams favor a 3-4-2-1 formation, focusing on solid defense and quick transitions. Empoli has struggled offensively, with only four wins this season, while Roma has shown inconsistency but possesses attacking talent in players like Paulo Dybala and Tammy Abraham. Empoli's captain, Samuele Ricci, and striker Francesco Caputo are key players, while Roma will rely on Dybala's creativity and Abraham's goal-scoring ability. Roma may face some injury concerns, impacting their squad depth. The match is expected to be closely contested, with Roma favored to win, but Empoli's need for points could lead to a spirited performance. A draw is also a likely outcome as both teams fight for crucial points.

Read article
Serie A
LELecce
vsMatch coverage
ACAC Milan
EDITORIALMar 8, 2025

"High-Stakes Serie A Showdown: Lecce Hosts AC Milan"

Lecce will face AC Milan on March 8, 2025, in a crucial Serie A match at the Stadio Ettore Giardiniero. Lecce, currently 16th with 25 points, is fighting to avoid relegation, having struggled defensively with 54 goals conceded. They have only one win in their last 10 matches. AC Milan, in 9th place with 41 points, aims for a European spot but has been inconsistent, especially in away games. Both teams typically employ a 4-2-3-1 formation. Lecce will rely on captain Gabriel Strefezza and goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone, while Milan will look to Olivier Giroud and Rafael Leão to exploit Lecce's defensive weaknesses. Lecce has no major injury concerns, but Milan may be missing key players. Given their current form, Milan is favored to win, but Lecce's home advantage could lead to a competitive match. A draw is a likely outcome, but Milan's attacking strength could secure them a narrow victory. The match promises to be intense, with significant implications for both teams as the season nears its end.

Read article