The defeat at the Olimpico against Lazio was predictable, if we looked strictly at the values on the pitch. The difference between the two squads is clear, and it couldn’t be otherwise, but Empoli still comes out with their heads held high, demonstrating that they are not intimidated by certain stages. The string of consecutive useful results is therefore interrupted at six – eight if we also consider the Italian Cup matches.
Empoli played their game
On the day of his first defeat in the championship, D’Aversa still took home the satisfaction of having held his own against Lazio. In the first half, Empoli took the lead and tried to stop the Biancocelesti’s gusts, but in the middle of injury time the goal arrived which reinvigorated the home team. All in all it was a good Empoli, lively, who naturally conceded something, but as said before all this was largely predictable. The break will certainly serve to recover some energy and some players who have not played up to now (Zurkowski, for example) and D’Aversa can say he is satisfied with the always positive attitude of his team.
Vasquez’s good form
On the day of many penalties saved, Devis Vasquez also did his part, managing to counter Castellanos’ shot from eleven metres. The Colombian goalkeeper continues to be one of the happiest surprises of the Italian team and even towards the end, when Lazio had now taken the lead, he thwarted the Biancocelesti’s attempts several times. D’Aversa is pampering himself with a goalkeeper who may not be flashy but who, up until now, has been fundamental to Empoli’s defensive stability.