Martínez Double Keeps Inter on Tail of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez netted a second-half brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the away side firmly involved in the Italian league title race despite a somewhat shaky display.
League Table Update
Under manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the table with 27 points total, level with runner-up Roma and just one point behind leaders Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the third bottom position with 10 points.
Game Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to return to winning ways after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a European loss at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle throughout by newly-promoted Pisa. The hosts generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter scored the opener in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-time shot into the top of the net. The forward then finished from point-blank seven minutes from time.
The team’s ability to score despite pressure was decisive in earning the victory.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to equalize at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into stoppage time. The visitors’ goals came from Ayoze Pérez just after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid travel to Girona needing a victory to return to the top above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close contention for the Italian crown.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.
