AC Milan defeat Empoli by single goal

AC Milan have defeated Empoli 2-1 in Serie A.

Empoli had the first chance of the match when Lorenzo Tonelli's shot was deflected behind for a corner.

In the 13th minute, Massimo Maccarone found space inside the box but a last-ditch tackle prevented him from scoring.

Carlos Bacca broke the deadlock four minutes later with a strike from inside the area.

Milan held the lead for just three minutes though. Riccardo Saponara finished from 10 yards after a Maccarone through-ball split the Milan defence.

Manuel Pucciarelli nearly gave Empoli the lead in the 22nd minute, but his shot from the edge of the area skimmed the crossbar.

Luiz Adriano and Suso both had chances in the closing stages of the first half, but they failed to hit the target.

Neither team threatened in the early stages of the second half, with a number of AC Milan crosses being cleared by the Empoli defence.

Milan took the lead in the 69th minute though when Luiz Adriano headed into the roof of the net from close range.

Saponara attempted to equalise in the 82nd minute but his shot flew over the bar.