PREVIEW: Empoli FC vs. Avellino (Interstat) — Serie B

Empoli FC hosts Avellino on Friday, May 1, 2026, in a Serie B matchup at Stadio Carlo Castellani. Kickoff is set for 8:45 p.m. local time.

Empoli (4-11-15 in league play, 23 points) enters on a four-match winless streak after a 2-0 loss at Venezia on April 25. The defeat followed a 1-1 draw with Virtus Entella and consecutive 1-0 losses to Padova and Sampdoria. Empoli’s lone victory in its last seven games came March 22, a 4-2 win over Pescara. The club has struggled offensively, scoring just once in its past four matches.

Avellino (12-9-9, 45 points) rides a two-match winning streak after a 2-0 victory at Bari on April 24 and a 2-0 win at Mantova on April 18. The run followed a 1-1 draw with Catanzaro and losses to Palermo (2-0) and Sampdoria (2-1). Avellino has won three of its last five, with the only defeats coming against top-half opponents.

In the most recent head-to-head meeting, Empoli defeated Avellino 3-0 on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. That result snapped a two-match winless run for Empoli against Avellino.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 2-1 victory for Avellino, suggesting the visitors’ recent form will carry the day despite Empoli’s home advantage. Avellino’s defense has been solid, keeping clean sheets in three of the last five matches. Empoli’s attack, meanwhile, has managed only four goals in its past six outings.

Key players to watch include Avellino’s leading scorer, who has netted in each of the last two matches, and Empoli’s midfield playmaker, who is due to return from a minor injury.

The match carries playoff implications. Avellino sits in the top half of the Serie B table, seeking to solidify its postseason position. Empoli, near the relegation zone, needs points to climb out of danger.

Friday’s contest marks the second of three meetings between the clubs this season.