Monday's Serie A predictions including Inter Milan vs. Empoli

Bologna vs. Cremonese (Monday, 5.30pm)

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After experiencing differing fortunes in the cup this week, mid-table Bologna and winless Cremonese return to Serie A duty on Monday, at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.

While the Rossoblu exited the Coppa Italia at its last-16 stage, their visitors upset the odds to topple Napoli and reach the quarter-finals - a rare sliver of success in an otherwise troubled season.

We say: Bologna 0-1 Cremonese

Monday could finally herald Cremonese's first Serie A win since promotion, as injury-hit Bologna are somewhat short of firepower. With 10 goals conceded from set-pieces already this term - Cremonese's 11 is a league high - the hosts may be undone in that manner and find themselves unable to respond.

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Inter Milan vs. Empoli (Monday, 7.45pm)

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Following their successful jaunt to Saudi Arabia, Supercoppa winners Inter Milan resume domestic duties on Monday, when they host Empoli at San Siro.

Just one point adrift of their city rivals in Serie A following a 1-0 victory over Verona last weekend, Inter then claimed silverware at Milan's expense on Wednesday. Their visitors, meanwhile, are undefeated since returning from the winter break.

We say: Inter Milan 2-0 Empoli

Following their third-minute winner against Verona last week, Inter have scored eight times during the first 15 minutes of play in Serie A this season - more than any other team. Given the effects of their trip to the Middle East and subsequent celebrations, they may take more time to get going on Monday, but can still see off an Empoli side which has won just once away from home.

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