Inter 2-0 Empoli: Federico Dimarco e Alexis Sanchez portano i Nerazzurri più vicini alla conquista del titolo di campione.

Inter continued their dominant run towards the Serie A title with a comfortable 2-0 victory over struggling Empoli. After their winning streak was halted by a draw with Napoli, Simone Inzaghi’s side returned to winning ways at San Siro.

The victory was sealed by substitute Alexis Sanchez in the 81st minute, adding to Federico Dimarco’s early strike. Empoli offered little in response, although Francesco Acerbi may have been fortunate to avoid conceding a penalty just before half-time.

Inter had several opportunities to extend their lead, with Nicolo Barella and Benjamin Pavard missing big chances. However, Sanchez made no mistake and secured the win for the Nerazzurri, restoring their 14-point lead over city rivals Milan.

Lautaro Martinez came close to marking his 200th Serie A appearance with a goal, but it was Dimarco who opened the scoring. The full-back reacted quickly to drill a first-time finish into the bottom-left corner after being picked out by Alessandro Bastoni.

Empoli had their first real chance through Razvan Marin, but Inter’s stand-in goalkeeper Emil Audero tipped his long-range effort over the bar. There was controversy as VAR did not intervene for a potential penalty after Acerbi’s challenge on Sebastiano Luperto.

Inter had to wait until the introduction of Sanchez to secure the victory. Just four minutes after coming on, Sanchez tucked home Denzel Dumfries’ cross to ensure there would be no late drama.

The talking point of the match was Acerbi’s challenge on Luperto. The defender had recently been accused of racial abuse and withdrew from the Italy squad during the investigation. While his challenge went unpunished, it could have had consequences for Inter.

The player of the match was Federico Dimarco, who proved why he is one of the best full-backs/wing-backs in Europe. His runs forward caused constant problems for Empoli’s defense, and his finish was clinical.

Player ratings for Inter were generally positive, with Dimarco receiving a standout rating of 9. Empoli’s performance was less impressive, with most players receiving average ratings.

In the match highlights, Martinez came close to scoring early on, but his header was saved by Caprile. Dimarco then opened the scoring with a stunning first-time finish. Audero made a great save to deny Marin’s long-range strike. Empoli had a penalty appeal turned down after Acerbi’s challenge on Luperto. Barella had a chance to double Inter’s lead but dragged his shot wide. Sanchez sealed the victory with a goal just minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Overall, it was a routine win for Inter as they continue their march towards the Serie A title. With only eight games left, it seems inevitable that the title will be theirs.