Match Preview | Empoli vs Cittadella
On August 11, 2023 by Jake IovineMatch: Empoli vs Cittadella – Coppa Italia Round of 64
Date: August 12th, 2023 – 17:45 local (11:45am EST)
Stadium: Stadio Carlo Castellani – Empoli
TV (USA): Paramount Plus
For the first time this season, it’s a Cittadella matchday as the Granata face Serie A side Empoli in the Round of 64 of the Coppa Italia.
Before Edoardo Gorini’s side takes the pitch in their home opener against Reggiana, it’s first a difficult test against Empoli, who finished 14th last season in Serie A.
Cittadella has had a busy summer transfer window, signing a total of 10 players as of today. Sporting director Stefano Marchetti has revamped the attacking department, bringing in the likes of Filippo Pittarello, Claudio Cassano, Luca Pandolfi. Cittadella only netted 34 goals in 38 league games last season, surviving relegation on the final day against Como.
Empoli have also had a busy summer market. The team from Tuscany acquired Spezia winger Emmanuel Gyasi, while also securing contracts for center back duo Sebastian Walukiewicz and Sebastiano Luperto. This will also be the first meeting against Cittadella for head coach Paolo Zanetti since defeated the Granata in the 2021 promotion playoffs with Venezia.
There’s a lot to look forward to for both sides at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on Saturday night. The winner of the match will have a chance to host the next round against the winner of Cremonese and Crotone. The winner of that game will move onto the Round of 16 to face Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in the capital.
Top Photo: AS Cittadella