Martínez Brace Keeps Inter Milan in Pursuit of Frontrunners
Inter forward Lautaro Martínez netted a late double to earn his side a 2-0 win at Pisa, ensuring the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A title race despite a less than convincing display.
League Table Update
Led by manager Cristian Chivu, Inter now are placed in third position in the standings with 27 points, tied with runner-up Roma and just one point behind table-toppers Milan. In contrast, Pisa hold the 18th spot with 10 points.
Game Summary
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. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by newly-promoted Pisa. The home team created plenty of opportunities, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a first-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 pressure was crucial in securing the victory.
Additional Continental Matches
Across in Spain, the Basque side mounted a dramatic comeback 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 shortly after the half-hour mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler soon pulled one back and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro delivered the final say deep into added time.
Later on La Liga fixture, Real Madrid journey to Girona needing a win to go back to the summit above Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on Saturday.
- Inter remain in tight contention for the Serie A crown.
- Martínez demonstrated his value with a match-winning performance.
- The battle for first continues with multiple teams in the mix.
