Martínez Double Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Leaders
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late brace to secure his team a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
League Table Overview
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter currently sit third in the table with 27 points total, level with second-placed Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a loss to rivals by Milan recently, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts created plenty of opportunities, but a efficient Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute when Argentinian Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The forward then finished from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to convert even with difficult circumstances proved decisive in earning the victory.
Other European Action
In Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a goal five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro delivered the final say late in stoppage time.
In the late Spanish fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
- Inter remain in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a decisive display.
- The title race continues with several teams competing.
