Serie A: Empoli Hold Inter Milan To Stalemate at Stadio Carlo Castellani

Nerazzurri's Title Hopes Dented After Draw

Late Empoli Equalizer Denies Inter Crucial Away Win

Empoli held Inter Milan to a 2-2 draw at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on Sunday, as the Nerazzurri's Serie A title hopes suffered a setback.

Inter, looking to maintain their grip on the Scudetto race, took an early lead through Hakan Çalhanoğlu in the 40th minute. The Turkish midfielder found the back of the net with a stunning strike from outside the box.

However, Empoli showed great resilience and determination, equalizing just minutes later through Nicolò Cambiaghi. The young Italian forward pounced on a loose ball in the Inter defense and slotted it home from close range.

The second half saw both teams create chances, but it was Empoli who struck first. Tommaso Baldanzi gave the hosts the lead in the 66th minute with a well-taken shot from the edge of the area.

Inter pushed for an equalizer and their efforts paid off in the 83rd minute. Substitute Edin Džeko leveled the score with a powerful header from a corner kick.

Despite the late equalizer, Inter were unable to find a winning goal and had to settle for a point. The draw leaves them second in the Serie A standings, two points behind Napoli, who have a game in hand.

Key Statistics

• Inter had more possession (63%) and shots on target (5) than Empoli (2).
• Empoli won more corners (7) than Inter (4).
• Nicolò Cambiaghi has now scored in each of his last three Serie A appearances.

Player Ratings

Inter Milan

• Hakan Çalhanoğlu - 7.5 (Goal)
• Edin Džeko - 7 (Goal)
• Lautaro Martínez - 6.5
• Milan Škriniar - 6

Empoli

• Nicolò Cambiaghi - 8 (Goal)
• Tommaso Baldanzi - 7.5 (Goal)
• Alberto Grassi - 7
• Guglielmo Vicario - 7

Conclusion

Inter's draw with Empoli was a disappointing result for the Nerazzurri, who needed a win to keep pace with Napoli at the top of the Serie A standings. Empoli, on the other hand, will be delighted with a point against one of the league's top teams.