Empoli beat Cremonese 1-0 in Serie B, with Stiven Shpendi's 21st-minute goal settling the match. Cremonese dominated the ball, holding 75% possession, but managed only two shots on target.
Shpendi finished from Cristian Cauz's assist midway through the first half to put Empoli ahead. Joseph Ceesay was sent off in the 59th minute, leaving Cremonese a man down but still chasing the game. Empoli's goalkeeper made two saves to keep the lead intact.
The standout numbers were Cremonese's 657 accurate passes to Empoli's 186, yet they could not score. Empoli took their one big chance while Cremonese missed theirs, and the home side held on for three points. Shpendi's early strike proved decisive.
