Monza vs Empoli Prediction May 8 2026 — Serie B

While the bookmakers heavily favor a Monza victory, there is significant value in the Handicap market rather than just a straight win. Monza’s defensive reliability combined with Empoli’s porous away record suggests a multi-goal margin is likely.

Match Preview & Form Guide

As the 2025/2026 Serie B season approaches its final round, AC Monza and Empoli find themselves at opposite ends of the competitive spectrum. Monza, currently sitting in 3rd place with 75 points, are firmly entrenched in the promotion hunt, aiming to solidify their standing for the upcoming play-offs. Under the management of Alessandro Nesta—who returned to the club earlier this year—Monza has showcased a disciplined, effective brand of football, remaining unbeaten in their last five outings (W3, D2).

Conversely, Empoli occupies 14th place and has struggled for consistency throughout the campaign. Under new manager Fabio Caserta, appointed in March 2026, the Azzurri have found results hard to come by, currently sitting dangerously close to the lower-mid-table congestion. Their recent form (L, D, L, W, L in their last five) highlights defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 52 goals—a stark contrast to Monza’s defensive resilience.

• Monza Status: 3rd in Serie B; unbeaten in 5 matches; strong home record (78% win rate).
• Empoli Status: 14th in Serie B; struggling for away consistency with 15 losses overall this season.
• Context: Monza are playing to maintain momentum for promotion, while Empoli is playing with little to lose as they look to finish the season with dignity.

Tactical Analysis & Key Battles

Expect Monza to dictate the tempo at the U-Power Stadium. Alessandro Nesta’s side typically relies on a balanced 3-5-2 or 4-3-1-2 formation that prioritizes controlled possession and structured pressing. Monza’s backline, which has been the league's standout defensive unit, will likely look to nullify Empoli's transitions early, forcing the visitors to chase the ball.

Empoli, led by Fabio Caserta, will likely adopt a counter-attacking approach, hoping to isolate Monza’s wing-backs. The key battle will be in the midfield engine room; Monza’s ability to win the second balls against Empoli’s reactive setup will dictate how much sustained pressure the hosts can apply. If Monza’s attacking tandem can bypass Empoli’s high-pressure traps, expect the home side to dominate the shot count.