Martínez Brace Keeps Inter on Tail of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to secure his team a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly engaged in the Italian league championship battle despite a somewhat shaky performance.
Standings Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and only one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Match Recap
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan recently, which was followed by a Champions League loss at Atlético Madrid. However, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous opportunities, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez smacked a first-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert despite pressure proved decisive in earning three points.
Other European Matches
In Spain, the Basque side staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a goal five minutes into added time. The visitors’ scoring came from Ayoze Pérez just after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a win to go back to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter stay in tight pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez demonstrated his worth with a match-winning display.
- The title race continues with several clubs in the mix.
