Venezia vs. Empoli (Saturday, 2.00pm)
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After both ended 2024 in defeat, Venezia and Empoli will be seeking a bright start to the new year on Saturday, when they clash at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo.
While the Lagunari have been facing a season-long survival fight for some time, their Tuscan counterparts slipped closer to the Serie A drop zone during December.
We say: Venezia 1-1 Empoli
Although Venezia are slowly adapting to the top flight, Empoli have proved tougher to beat on the road than back home in Tuscany.
The hosts have kept just two clean sheets all season, and they may have to settle for a point as their visitors' attack features some promising talent.
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Fiorentina vs. Napoli (Saturday, 5.00pm)
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After ending 2024 with three straight wins, Serie A co-leaders Napoli can claim first place outright on Saturday evening, when they visit Fiorentina at Stadio Franchi.
While the Viola have started to drop points and slip down the standings, their visitors are intent on seizing top spot while Atalanta BC take part in the Supercoppa Italiana.
We say: Fiorentina 1-1 Napoli
Fiorentina have proved tough to beat at home, so Napoli may have to make do with a point - still enough to take sole possession of the Serie A summit.
While the Viola's form has faltered, they remain a well-drilled unit that can pose some problems for the Partenopei's solid defence.
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Hellas Verona vs. Udinese (Saturday, 7.45pm)
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Having pulled clear of the Serie A drop zone by winning last weekend, Hellas Verona hope to start 2025 in similar style as they host Udinese on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Friulani head for Stadio Bentegodi occupying a top-half spot in the standings, and they will aim to cap off an impressive first half of the season.
We say: Hellas Verona 1-2 Udinese
It has been win or bust at the Bentegodi this season, as Verona have suffered seven losses and posted three wins so far.
That pattern could continue against Udinese, who are a well-organised side posing plenty of threat up front.
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Oliver Thomas
