Inter defeat Empoli to cut gap on leaders Napoli

Inter Milan produced a fine second-half performance to defeat a dogged Empoli side and cut the gap on Serie A leaders Napoli.

Lautaro Martinez, who hit the post with a shot on the turn in the first half, finished well with a 25-yard strike in the 55th minute after being set up by Nicolo Barella.

Denzel Dumfries doubled Inter's advantage with a powerful downward header following Kristjan Asllani's corner in the 79th minute to put the hosts two ahead.

But Sebastian Esposito, on loan at Empoli from Inter, scored against his parent club thanks to a powerful strike in the 83rd minute.

However, Marcus Thuram wrapped up the victory and got his 13th league goal of the season in the 89th minute, shooting into the net after Marko Arnautovic's assist.

The result leaves reigning champions Inter second in Serie A and with a game in hand on Napoli, who are three points clear.

Inter are now unbeaten in 15 league matches, while Empoli are 14th but only one point above 18th-placed Verona in the relegation zone.

Inter are next in action on Wednesday with a Champions League game at Sparta Prague, needing a win to remain in the top eight of the league phase and stay on course to reach the last 16 and avoid the play-off round.