Martínez Brace Ensures Inter in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to earn his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much involved in the Italian league title race despite a less than convincing display.
Standings Overview
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed third in the table with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa occupy the third bottom position with 10 points.
Match Summary
Inter traveled in Tuscany aiming to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were forced to fight all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created numerous chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
Inter’s capacity to score despite difficult circumstances was decisive in securing three points.
Additional European Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side staged a dramatic fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to lose to a late strike 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 soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea leveled the score three minutes from time. Yet, Moleiro had the last word deep into stoppage time.
In the late La Liga match, Real Madrid journey to Girona requiring a victory to go back to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 win over Alavés on Saturday.
- The Nerazzurri stay in close pursuit for the Serie A title.
- Martínez proved his worth with a decisive performance.
- The battle for first goes on with multiple clubs competing.
