Empoli-Cagliari 1-1: goals from Pinamonti and Pavoletti

A goal in each half, by Pinamonti and Pavoletti, is all that sets the Castellani match on 1-1. Empoli and Cagliari are equal overall in a match with many chances, even if the Sardinians catch up with the game only in the final after a long run-up.

The match

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The start of the match is perky, despite the two teams coming from diametrically opposed moments. The difference between the two contenders, however, is that the Tuscans appear increasingly dangerous and in fact it is the hosts who take the lead: a lightning-fast restart is masterfully conducted by Nedim Bajrami in the 38th minute and the ball reaches Andrea Pinamonti’s feet. Ball on the net and Aurelio Andreazzoli rejoices. Despite the unblocked result, the game remains active on both fronts between a couple of defensive distractions by the Sardinians and some nice saves by Vicario. In the second half the changes give energy but do not change the substance: the Empoli goalkeeper is engaged on some occasions without enormous dangers. This was until the 83rd minute, when an insistent action ended the ball on the feet of Leonardo Pavoletti, who had just taken over: the center-forward’s leg was a winner and Walter Mazzarri’s Cagliari smiled in the final with a sweaty draw.

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