All in all, the point obtained in Parma is satisfactory for Empoli, especially in light of the final forcing of the home team, who risked obtaining the entire stake with the penalty missed by Bonny. D’Aversa was asking for a test of character and there was one, especially in the first half, in which Empoli managed to take the lead with an offensive flash from the Colombo-Gyasi-Fazzini trio. The draw shakes up the rankings after two defeats and certifies that the Azzurri have not let their guard down.
Fazzini the best (and it’s nothing new)
The best on the pitch was undoubtedly Jacopo Fazzini. The young product of the Empoli academy is experiencing the season of consecration, in a role that sees him more involved in the heart of the action. His slip caused Coulibaly’s own goal and in general his contribution was constant in both phases. It is no coincidence to see him running backwards and then moving forward with maximum clarity. Fazzini is becoming an all-round player, flexible and present, both athletically and physically.
Solbakken a step back
The one who doesn’t seem to take off, however, is Ola Solbakken. The Norwegian footballer had a new opportunity, due to Esposito’s unavailability. But he did not exploit it, denoting a certain discontinuity. It seemed a bit unproductive to us, still not too centered in D’Aversa’s schemes. He is an atypical striker, who perhaps would prefer to start from the flank, but it is obvious that he is the one who has to adapt to his coach’s tactical beliefs. With Esposito available he risks slipping behind in the offensive hierarchies.