Pisa vs Empoli prediction 17.08.2026 | Coppa Italia

Pisa will enter the game with confidence after an impressive 4-1 victory away to Bologna in their final major pre-season test. The result was particularly encouraging given the calibre of the opposition, while goals from Tommaso Marras and Ionuț Vural helped Pisa establish a commanding lead before Bologna pulled one back. 

That victory represents a strong response following a difficult debut Serie A campaign, in which Pisa struggled for consistency and ultimately finished bottom of the standings. 

Pisa's squad still includes experienced players such as Juan Cuadrado and Michel Aebischer, while Calvin Stengs remains a notable fitness question after undergoing surgery in 2025 and subsequently working towards his return. 

There are no major newly confirmed absences that appear likely to dramatically alter Pisa's plans for this cup tie.

Empoli have had a quieter pre-season by comparison. They defeated Virtus Entella 1-0 before drawing 1-1 with Spezia and then recording another 1-1 draw against Livorno.

The sequence of results highlights a side that has been difficult to beat but has also struggled to produce consistently strong attacking numbers. Empoli scored only three goals across those three friendlies, although they conceded just two on the contrary.

Empoli have not reported a major injury crisis ahead of their Coppa Italia opener, although the club's summer squad changes mean there could be some uncertainty over the starting XI.