Ibrahimović double downs Empoli
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Article summary
Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimović scored twice as FC Internazionale Milano recorded their first league victory of the season with a 2-0 success at Empoli FC.
Article body
Ibrahimović opener
The Nerazzurri were held to a 1-1 draw by Udiense Calcio on the opening weekend but Ibrahimović ensured there would be no repeat disappointment when he scored in both halves of Saturday night's fixture. The opening goal came on 13 minutes when the Sweden forward connected with Maicon's pinpoint cross and, thereafter, Roberto Mancini's side had to work hard to keep out a spirited home side.
Toldo save
The hosts were denied an equaliser midway through the second period when Francesco Toldo saved with his feet from Nicola Pozzi and Ibrahimović was again in the right place at the right time (83) to finish off a counterrattack involving Dejan Stanković, Luís Figo and Cesar as well as Empoli's hopes of salvaging anything from the contest. The win takes Inter up to fourth place in Serie A ahead of Sunday's matches.