Inter vs Empoli 0-1: Skriniar Sees Red in Shock Defeat

A first half dismissal to Milan Skriniar did not help Inter as they suffered a 1-0 defeat at home to Empoli on Monday evening. A stunned San Siro had to endure a dismal display by the Nerazzurri from start to finish as they put in a labored performance. Substitute Tommaso Baldanzi’s second half goal was enough for Empoli to grab a narrow 1-0 win. 

Lacklustre Opening Half 

The hosts never got going here today and looked poor from the off, struggling to create many meaningful opportunities and were sloppy in possession all match. 

Alessandro Bastoni found himself in some good space after a cross from Hakan Calhanoglu midway through the first half but the defender wasted the header. He had more time to show better composure with the chance. 

Things went from bad to worse for Inter when Skriniar was sent off for his second bookable offence just before the break.The 27-year-old was dismissed for two careless challenges in a disappointing display. It may even have been his final performance for Inter, amid speculation of his departure. 

Francesco Caputo had a good chance late on in the half when he was left free in space in the box following a cross from the right but his header failed to trouble goalkeeper Andre Onana. 

Super Sub Baldanzi

After the break, Empoli threatened on the counter after yet another labored attack by Inter. Nicolo Cambiaghi led the attack well before laying it off to Nedim Bajrami. Bajrami was able to get a shot away and hit the target but wasn’t able to beat Onana. 

The visitors went in front midway through the second half thanks to a fine counter-attacking goal by substitute Baldanzi. The 19-year-old led the move through the centre of the pitch before laying the ball off to Bajrami. Baldanzi then received the ball once more before slotting the ball past Onana. 

Head coach Simone Inzaghi decided to make a triple substitution in response to the goal and Edin Dzeko almost made an impact straight away with a decent effort but he failed to hit the target. 

Inter hit the bar with just under 15 minutes to go when De Vrij was able to win the header from a corner. With just over ten minutes remaining, Romelu Lukaku was introduced with Inter’s final move to change the game. However, Inter would not manage to find a late equalizer as they suffered a poor defeat. 

What’s Next for Inter and Empoli?

Inter visit Cremonese, whilst Empoli host Torino both on Saturday, January 28. 

MATCH SCORECARD

January 23, 2023 – Serie A 2022-23 Round 19
INTER – EMPOLI 0-1

SCORERS: 66′ Baldanzi (E)