Third-placed Inter Milan needed a second-half goal from Keita Balde to earn a hard-fought win away to Empoli on Saturday.
The Senegal international met Sime Vrsaljko's low cross with a first-time shot on the turn in the 72nd minute as Inter reached the halfway mark of the championship with 39 points, 14 behind leaders Juventus.
It was Inter's third 1-0 win in their last four league matches, although they performed in fits and starts and needed a good save by Samir Handanovic from Miha Zajc to prevent Empoli going ahead at the start of the second half.