The upcoming Serie B clash between Empoli and Modena promises to be a crucial one for both sides as they head into the twenty-first round of the season. Scheduled for Saturday, January 31, this match could significantly influence the playoff race. Empoli are looking to close the gap on the top eight after a series of inconsistent results, while Modena aim to confirm that their recent recovery is more than just a temporary spark. With both teams fighting for stability and momentum, the encounter at the Carlo Castellani stadium is expected to be tightly contested and tactically balanced.

Empoli’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Empoli have experienced a turbulent run of form in recent weeks. After a promising spell of three positive results, they have stumbled again with back-to-back defeats against Carrarese and Sudtirol, including a heavy 3-0 loss to Carrarese on January 23, 2026. These setbacks have slowed their progress and left them five points adrift of the playoff zone. The team’s inconsistency has been a recurring issue, as reflected in their last five matches: 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats, with an average of 0.6 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game.

Across the season, Empoli’s record stands at 7 wins, 6 draws, and 8 losses, scoring an average of 1.2 goals while conceding 1.3. Their attacking struggles have become evident, with the team often failing to convert chances into goals. This lack of efficiency in front of goal has been one of the main reasons for their mid-table position. The home side will need to rediscover their scoring touch if they are to keep their playoff hopes alive. Historically, Empoli have had the upper hand in this fixture, with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in their last five head-to-head meetings, averaging 2.0 goals scored and 1.4 conceded.

Modena’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Modena enter this match in a slightly better position, sitting sixth in the Serie B table. After a strong start to the season, they went through a difficult spell with three consecutive defeats that derailed their push for automatic promotion. However, a 0-0 draw against Palermo on January 24, 2026 and a prior win over Pescara have helped them regain some confidence. In their last five matches, Modena have recorded 1 win, 1 draw, and 3 losses, scoring 0.8 goals and conceding 1.2 on average per game.

Over the course of the season, Modena’s record reads 9 wins, 6 draws, and 6 defeats, with an average of 1.3 goals scored and 0.8 conceded. Their defensive solidity has been one of their main strengths, as they boast one of the most resilient backlines in the league. In fact, Under 0.5 goals have been scored in 2 of their last 10 matches, highlighting their tendency to keep games tight and low-scoring. The team’s pragmatic approach has allowed them to remain competitive even when their attack has struggled to find rhythm. A positive result in Empoli would further consolidate their playoff position and confirm their return to form.

Empoli vs Modena Analysis and Tactical Overview

This fixture brings together two sides with contrasting recent trajectories but similar ambitions. Empoli are desperate to bounce back after two defeats and must improve their offensive output to challenge one of the league’s most disciplined defenses. Their inability to score consistently has been a major concern, particularly against teams that defend compactly and counter effectively. On the other hand, Modena have built their success on defensive organization, conceding fewer than one goal per match on average this season. Their pragmatic style often leads to low-scoring encounters, and they will likely approach this match with caution, aiming to frustrate Empoli and exploit any defensive lapses.

Historically, matches between these two sides have produced moderate scoring, with the last head-to-head ending 2-1 in October 2025. However, given Empoli’s current scoring difficulties and Modena’s defensive resilience, another tight contest seems likely. Both teams have shown a tendency to struggle in front of goal recently, which could make this encounter more about patience and discipline than attacking flair.

BetMines Prediction: Empoli vs Modena

According to the latest data, the probabilities for the 1X2 market are as follows: Empoli win 25%, Draw 29%, and Modena win 46%. The Both Teams To Score – No outcome is favored with a 54% probability, while Under 2.5 goals also holds a 54% likelihood. Considering Empoli’s offensive struggles and Modena’s solid defensive record, the most likely scenario points to a low-scoring match.

Empoli vs Modena prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score – No (54% probability).